Putin open to Ukraine talks but Zelensky decree blocks path
The Russian leader, Vladimir Putin, announced that the Russian Federation is supposedly prepared for negotiations concerning Ukraine. He described his relations with former President Trump as "pragmatic and trusting." Putin added that he is ready for discussions with the US president "in all areas."
During a visit to Moscow State University, Putin stated that Russia is ready to negotiate regarding Ukraine. However, according to him, if negotiations start now, "they can be considered illegal, since Zelensky has previously decided to ban direct dialogue with the Russian Federation."
Zelensky banned negotiations with Putin
Putin refers to the decree signed by Zelensky on September 30, 2022.
Decree No. 679/2022 addresses "actions in response to the attempt to annex Ukrainian territory by the Russian Federation, to guarantee security in the Euro-Atlantic space, in Ukraine, and to maintain territorial integrity."
The decree states, among other things, that under the current circumstances, it is impossible to negotiate with the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.
Trump threatened Putin
When asked about his relationship with former US President Donald Trump, the Russian leader responded: - I have always had a business relationship with the current president of the United States, an exclusively business relationship, but at the same time a pragmatic and trusting relationship, I would say.
He claimed that if Trump's victory "had not been stolen in 2020, there might not have been a crisis in Ukraine that erupted in 2022."
On Thursday evening, reports surfaced on two Russian channels on Telegram about a convoy of cars speeding toward the Kremlin. Putin's limousine was identified among them. The authors of the posts linked this information to President Donald Trump's statement, expressing a desire to "talk to Putin as soon as possible."
Earlier, during a speech in Davos, Trump mentioned that Ukraine is ready to make a "deal" with Russia to end the war. Trump stated that he would strive to lower oil prices to help end the war in Ukraine. - I’m also going to ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to bring down the cost of oil. You got to bring down the oil price; you’re going to end that war - said Trump.
