Gifted Markson
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness to engage in discussions with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump “at any time” regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
This comes as Trump has boldly claimed he can negotiate a peace deal within hours of taking office, a statement that has raised alarms in Kyiv over potentially unfavorable terms for Ukraine.
Speaking during his end-of-year press conference on Thursday, Putin projected confidence in Russia’s military gains, asserting that his troops hold the upper hand on the battlefield. However, he admitted regret over not launching the offensive earlier.
While Putin was optimistic about eventual victory, he was unable to provide a timeline for reclaiming the western Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have maintained a foothold since August.
“We will kick them out. Absolutely. But the question of a specific date, I’m sorry, I cannot say right now,” he remarked.
Despite the conflict’s challenges, Putin maintained that Russia’s economy remains “stable,” downplaying the effects of Western sanctions while acknowledging inflation and labor shortages as areas of concern.
Asked about Trump’s intentions to broker peace, Putin welcomed the idea of a meeting with the incoming U.S. president. “I don’t know when I’m going to see him. He isn’t saying anything about it. I haven’t talked to him in more than four years. I am ready for it, of course. Any time,” he said.
The Russian leader emphasized that any talks would involve “negotiations and compromises,” hinting at a possible shift in Moscow’s stance under Trump’s leadership.
Trump’s claims of a swift peace deal have stirred unease in Ukraine, where officials fear that his presidency could lead to concessions favoring Moscow.
Kyiv has expressed concern that any rushed deal might undermine Ukraine’s territorial integrity and independence.
Putin took the opportunity to tout the capabilities of Russia’s hypersonic missile, the Oreshnik, proposing a “hi-tech duel” with Western air defenses to prove its effectiveness.
He suggested testing the missile on a target in Kyiv, a provocative statement that underscores the escalating rhetoric in the conflict.
On the assassination of senior Russian army general Igor Kirillov, claimed by Kyiv, Putin described it as “terrorism” and criticized Russia’s security services for failing to prevent recent high-profile killings.
Putin addressed domestic concerns, acknowledging inflation as a “worrying signal” and noting rising prices for essential goods like butter and meat.
He pointed to the central bank’s expected interest rate hike as a measure to curb inflation but urged a “balanced” approach.
Reflecting on his decision to launch the Ukraine offensive in February 2022, Putin expressed regret for not acting earlier, stating, “Knowing what is happening now, I would think that such a decision… should have been taken earlier.”
As Trump prepares to assume office, the world is watching closely to see how his administration might influence the Ukraine conflict.
While Putin appears open to dialogue, the path to peace remains fraught with complexities, including mistrust between Moscow and Kyiv and the broader implications of a potential U.S.-brokered deal.
The coming months will reveal whether Trump’s claims of a swift resolution hold any merit or whether the conflict will continue to define the geopolitical landscape.
For now, Putin’s remarks serve as a reminder of Russia’s ongoing ambitions and the challenges ahead for both Ukraine and its allies.