Putin's remarks on Trump's new term: Will peace negotiations begin?

The war between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since February 24, 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin made assessments regarding Trump becoming president and 'possible' peace talks with Ukraine. Stating that they have never given up on dialogue with the US, Putin noted that the war in Ukraine might never have started 'if the previous election had not been stolen from Trump.'

The Russian leader expressed that if US President Donald Trump had been in office during the previous term, the war might never have started. 

'If Trump's election victory in 2020 had not been prevented, the crisis in Ukraine might not have occurred,' said Putin, underlining that he and Trump share the same view on Ukraine.

CAN RUSSIA AND THE US COOPERATE?

Touching upon energy markets, Putin emphasized that cooperation with the US in this field would provide economic benefits for both countries. Pointing to the importance of dialogues to be held in the energy sector, Putin noted the following: 

'Russia and the US are the world's largest energy producers. Instability in energy markets harms both sides.' 

Putin also evaluated Trump's statements that he is ready to work with Russia. Expressing that they are always open to dialogue, the Russian leader stated that the attitude of the current administration on this issue will be decisive.

Russia's energy exports have seen a significant decline since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022. European countries are imposing energy embargoes on Russia due to the war

THERE ARE OBSTACLES TO NEGOTIATIONS

Speaking about negotiations with Ukraine, Putin stated that they are 'ready for dialogue' but that 'there are some obstacles.' 

Recalling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decree banning negotiations with Russia, Putin said this situation complicates resolution efforts. Nevertheless, the Russian leader stated that they will continue to seek solutions for negotiations.

Regarding the relations between Russia and previous US administrations, Putin recalled that sanctions were also applied during the Trump era, while stating that these sanctions were expanded and became more comprehensive under the Biden administration. 

On the other hand, Putin claimed that the sanctions affect not only Russia but also the US economy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy