MOSCOW, (TDI): Russian President Vladimir Putin stated Thursday that he is open to talks with US President-elect Donald Trump “anytime” to discuss potential Ukraine peace deal efforts.
Trump has previously claimed that he could negotiate a peace deal for Ukraine within hours of taking office, raising concerns in Kyiv about possible compromises with Moscow.
Putin made the remarks during his annual end-of-year press conference, where he also expressed confidence in Russia’s military progress in Ukraine, claiming that Russian forces have the upper hand on the battlefield.
When asked about Trump’s offer of peace negotiations, Putin welcomed the possibility of meeting with the incoming US 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, adding that if they meet, there would be much to discuss, emphasizing that Russia is prepared for “negotiations and compromises.”
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The Kremlin has recently backed Trump’s criticism of President Joe Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to use US-supplied missiles to strike Russian territory, a move that escalated the conflict.
Putin asserted that Russia’s military was making steady advances, particularly in eastern Ukraine, and emphasized that the country was on track to achieve its primary objectives of the “special military operation.”
Hypersonic Missile Challenge
In a provocative statement, Putin challenged the West to test Russia’s new hypersonic missile, the Oreshnik.
He suggested that the West choose a target in Kyiv, set up air and missile defense systems, and then see how well they can defend against a Russian strike.
“Let them call us and those in the West and the US to conduct a technological experiment and have a 21st-century-style high-tech duel. Let them choose a target, say, in Kyiv, and we will launch an Oreshnik missile. We’ll see what happens,” he said.
Kursk Offensive
Putin also addressed the ongoing situation in eastern Ukraine, where Russian forces have advanced at their fastest pace since the beginning of the invasion.
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When asked about when residents might return to their homes in areas affected by the conflict, Putin acknowledged that the military would continue its operations but could not provide a specific timeline.
“We will absolutely kick them out. Absolutely. But I can’t say when,” he said.
Russia-China Relations
Turning to international relations, Putin noted that Russia’s ties with China are closer than ever, with both nations coordinating their actions on the global stage.
He also addressed Russia’s economic challenges, acknowledging that Western sanctions have had some impact but stressing that Russia’s economy remains “stable,” citing low unemployment and industrial growth as indicators of resilience.
Inflation Concerns
Regarding inflation, Putin admitted that rising prices for essential goods like butter and meat were “unpleasant” and recognized that inflation was a concerning signal.
He criticized Russia’s central bank for not taking adequate measures to address the issue beyond raising interest rates.
Syria Situation
Putin also discussed the situation in Syria, where Russia has played a significant role in supporting President Bashar al-Assad.
He denied claims that Russia had been defeated in Syria following Assad’s ouster, saying the country had achieved its objectives.
“We came to Syria 10 years ago to prevent a terrorist enclave. We have achieved our goal,” Putin said. He added that many European nations and the US are now looking to establish relations with Syria’s new leadership.
Killing of Russian General
In his press conference, Putin condemned the assassination of Russian General Igor Kirillov, the head of Russia’s chemical weapons unit, who was killed by a bomb in Moscow earlier this week.
Putin called the act “terrorism” and accused Ukraine of repeatedly committing terrorist attacks against Russian citizens.
Russia claimed to have detained an Uzbek man who confessed to planting the bomb on instructions from Ukraine’s security service (SBU).
