Putin Open to Talks with Trump Amid Ukraine War Developments

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to engage in discussions with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, marking a potential shift in relations as speculation grows over a possible diplomatic resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

During his annual end-of-year press conference on Thursday, December 9, Putin revealed that he has not spoken with Trump in over four years. However, he stated, "I am ready for a meeting at any time, and I will be ready if he wants it." This comment came in response to a question from NBC's Kier Simmons regarding future U.S.-Russia relations under the new administration.

Putin, while addressing Russia's military efforts, emphasized progress on the battlefield, asserting that Russian forces were advancing "along the entire frontline" in Ukraine. However, when pressed on a timeline for recapturing the southern Kursk region, Putin declined to provide specifics. "I cannot and do not want to name a specific date... but we will definitely push them out. There is no other way," he said.

The Kursk region has been a flashpoint since Ukrainian forces launched a surprise incursion in August. Putin criticized the strategic value of Kyiv's actions, claiming, “It is unclear why the Ukrainian Armed Forces are holding on there... But nevertheless, it is happening.”

When asked whether recent setbacks in Ukraine and the Middle East had weakened Russia's negotiating position, Putin dismissed such notions. "Those who pay your salaries in the U.S. would very much like Russia to be in a weakened position," he told Simmons. He asserted, "Russia has become much stronger over the past two or three years... We are becoming a truly sovereign country, hardly dependent on anyone."

The discussion also touched on reports of past communications between Trump and Putin. Trump has denied claims made in a recent book by journalist Bob Woodward suggesting the two had multiple conversations since 2021.

As the war in Ukraine approaches its third year, the prospect of dialogue between Putin and Trump could signify a new chapter in addressing the conflict. However, the Russian leader's comments reflect an unwavering stance on military operations and sovereignty, leaving the future of any potential negotiations uncertain.