Putin Welcomes Peace Talks with Trump, Warns of Long-Term Struggles in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to engage in talks with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump at any time, in response to Trump’s assertions that he could strike a peace deal regarding Ukraine within hours of assuming office.

In his annual end-of-year press conference, Putin noted that he had not spoken with Trump in more than four years, but was open to negotiations. “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. “If we ever have a meeting with President-elect Trump, I am sure we’ll have a lot to talk about,” he added, emphasizing Russia’s readiness for “negotiations and compromises.”

While he remains confident about Russia’s progress in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Putin admitted that there are still uncertainties, particularly regarding the recovery of the western Kursk region. When asked by a woman from the Kursk region when residents could return to their homes after evacuations due to Ukrainian attacks, Putin was unable to give a clear answer. “We will kick them out. Absolutely. It can’t be any other way. But the question of a specific date, I’m sorry, I cannot say right now,” he acknowledged.

Putin’s press conference lasted just under four and a half hours, touching on various issues, including Russia’s military progress and economic challenges. He spoke with confidence about Russia’s military advances, claiming that Russian troops have been victorious on the battlefield. “I regret not starting the offensive earlier,” he said, in reference to the ongoing conflict.

Despite the military successes, Putin was questioned about Russia’s economic situation, particularly the consequences of the war, such as inflation and labor shortages. Putin admitted that inflation was a “worrying signal,” especially regarding the rising prices of basic food items like butter and meat. “Inflation is a worrying signal,” he acknowledged. He also recognized that Western sanctions had contributed to the economic strain but downplayed their significance, stating they were not of “key significance.”

Putin expressed optimism about Russia’s overall stability, despite external pressures, citing low unemployment and industrial growth as indicators of economic resilience. “The situation is stable, despite external threats,” he said.

As for the impact of the conflict on Russia’s economy, Putin’s responses highlighted the tension between military expenditure and economic stability, as he navigates the challenges presented by both the ongoing war and the sanctions imposed by the West.