Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday expressed readiness to negotiate an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for compromise and engagement with legitimate Ukrainian authorities. His remarks, made during a televised Q&A session, signal a potential opening for dialogue but maintain firm conditions on Russia’s stance.
“We are open to discussions with anyone, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy,” Putin said, according to a report by Reuters. He underscored that Russia holds no preconditions for talks but insisted that Kyiv must also show a willingness to compromise.
Putin addressed a U.S. reporter’s question about a potential meeting with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, noting that while they had not communicated in years, he was open to discussions about resolving the conflict.
The Russian president rejected claims of his country being in a weak position, asserting that Russia had strengthened since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. However, he ruled out the possibility of a temporary truce, favoring a comprehensive peace agreement. He referenced a draft proposal from earlier negotiations in Istanbul, describing it as a potential framework for future talks, though it had been dismissed by some in Ukraine as overly conciliatory to Moscow.
“The foundations for peace must be sustainable and equitable,” Putin remarked, adding that NATO’s expansion was a key motivator for the invasion, which he described as a defensive measure.
The war, now in its second year, has resulted in significant casualties, displaced millions, and deepened divisions between Russia and the West. Despite international sanctions and widespread condemnation, Russia continues to hold approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory.
Putin’s comments come amid increasing calls for de-escalation and dialogue from global leaders. The path to peace, however, remains fraught with challenges as both sides hold firm to their respective positions.