The Kremlin expressed openness to talks between President Vladimir Putin and incoming US President Donald Trump, following Trump’s announcement that a meeting between the two leaders was in the works. Trump, set to take office on January 20, has suggested that he could quickly end the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, though without laying out a clear strategy.
Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, confirmed that the Russian president has always been receptive to engaging with global leaders, including Trump. On Thursday, Trump revealed plans for a meeting with Putin, stating, “He wants to meet, and we’re setting it up.” Trump described the war as a “bloody mess” that needs resolution, while the Kremlin welcomed Trump’s openness to solving issues through dialogue, with no preconditions for the meeting.
Trump’s desire for a quick resolution to the war has raised concerns in Ukraine, with fears that a peace deal could be reached on terms favorable to Russia. Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, the US has provided significant aid to Ukraine, a key factor in its continued resistance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged Trump to support his proposal for NATO-backed security guarantees as part of any peace deal.
While Trump’s comments about meeting Putin sparked discussion, Ukraine’s foreign ministry downplayed the announcement, emphasizing their goal for a fair resolution and preparing for talks with Washington post-inauguration, including a potential meeting between Trump and Zelensky.
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