Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to engage in discussions with former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, following Trump’s warning for a swift resolution or the imposition of “high levels of taxes, tariffs, and sanctions.”
In his first public response to Trump’s remarks, Putin indicated his readiness for dialogue. Speaking to a journalist on Russian state television, he stated, “We believe the current president’s statements about his readiness to work together. We are always open to this and ready for negotiations.”
Putin emphasized the importance of practical dialogue, adding, “It would be better for us to meet, based on the realities of today, to talk calmly.”
Describing his relationship with Trump, Putin characterized it as “businesslike, pragmatic, and trustworthy.” He further praised Trump’s approach, saying, “He is not only a smart person but a pragmatic one. I have a hard time imagining there will be decisions taken that are detrimental to the American economy.”
The Russian president, however, highlighted challenges in negotiating with Ukraine, pointing to a decree signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that bars direct talks with him.
Additionally, Putin suggested that the crisis in Ukraine might have been avoided if Trump had not lost the 2020 U.S. presidential election. “I cannot but agree with him that if he had been president, if his victory had not been stolen from him in 2020, then perhaps there would not have been the crisis in Ukraine that arose in 2022,” Putin remarked.
These comments signal a potential openness for renewed dialogue under Trump’s leadership, although the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict remain deeply entrenched.
