MOSCOW, RUSSIA – Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his readiness to engage in talks with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump during his annual year-end press conference on Thursday, December 19, 2024. The discussions, if they occur, would focus on resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
“I don’t know when I’ll see him. He isn’t saying anything about it. I haven’t spoken to him in more than four years. I am ready for it, of course. Anytime,” Putin said, emphasizing his openness to dialogue with Trump.
Trump, who is set to take office in January, has pledged to swiftly end the Ukraine conflict but has not provided details on his approach. Putin’s statement signals Russia’s interest in potential cooperation with the incoming U.S. administration to address the crisis.
During the press conference, Putin also claimed that Russian forces were making progress toward achieving their objectives in Ukraine. He reiterated Moscow’s willingness to negotiate and reach compromises, stating, “We have always said that we are ready for negotiations and compromises.”
Additionally, Putin highlighted Russia’s strengthened economic and military resilience, asserting that the country has become more sovereign in recent years despite Western sanctions and international pressure.
The potential dialogue between Putin and Trump is seen as a pivotal moment that could influence the trajectory of the Ukraine conflict and broader global relations. Observers are closely watching how the two leaders might approach this critical issue in the coming months.
