According to five sources close to the Kremlin, President Putin is prepared to engage in talks with newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump. Moscow emphasizes that any agreement must reflect the realities on the battlefield.
Russia currently controls a vast area in Ukraine roughly the size of the U.S. state of Virginia, marking its most rapid territorial gains since the 2022 invasion. Although Moscow claims full sovereignty over four regions—Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson—its forces control only 70-80% of these territories.
Sources suggest Russia may consider withdrawing troops from smaller areas, particularly parts of Kharkiv and Mykolaiv. However, President Putin has made it clear that Ukraine must adopt a neutral stance.
During the Valdai Discussion Club earlier this month, Putin stated, "Without neutrality, it is hard to imagine a positive relationship between Russia and Ukraine. It would only turn Ukraine into a tool used against Russian interests."
Analysts believe Putin is aiming for a ceasefire agreement that ensures a long-term resolution and prevents Western countries from rearming Ukraine.
In a potential peace deal brokered by Trump, Russia might be open to negotiations on specific divisions within the four eastern regions. However, Moscow insists on freezing the conflict along the current lines of control.
Global leaders are watching Putin's stance closely, particularly amid concerns that U.S. support for Ukraine might wane under the new administration, putting additional pressure on European allies. It remains uncertain how effective Trump can be in mediating this highly complex situation.
This development adds a new dimension to the geopolitical landscape, with the possibility of a Trump-Putin-mediated peace deal raising both hope and skepticism worldwide.
