Putin states that he is 'open to dialogue' with Trump administration regarding war in Ukraine

Putin congratulated Trump on his inauguration as US President. According to him, Moscow sees Trump and his team's statements about wanting to restore direct contact with Russia.

"We have never rejected dialogue with any US administration. We are also open to dialogue with the new US administration regarding the Ukrainian conflict. The goal of resolving the Ukrainian issue should not be a short ceasefire, but long-term peace," he said.

The Russian President also stated that "peace in Ukraine must be based on respect for the legitimate interests of the people living in this region." Dialogue with the US, according to Putin, "should be built on an equal and mutually respectful basis."

At the same time, he added that Russia's authorities will continue to fight for the interests of their people, as this, allegedly, is the essence of the "special military operation" (SVO).

Trump wants to talk to Putin

As reported by American media, elected US President Donald Trump has instructed to arrange a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This conversation is expected to take place in the coming days after the inauguration on January 20.

Recently, Trump also stated that he would like to meet with Putin as soon as possible after his inauguration. According to the future US president, the Russian President holds the key to ending the war against Ukraine.

Earlier, future US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz stated that he expects a phone conversation between Trump and Putin "in the coming days and weeks."

Additionally, the Kremlin has already expressed its readiness for a meeting with Trump without any preconditions.