Putin-Trump meeting in the works amid conflict talks
The Kremlin confirms the desire to organise a meeting between Putin and the U.S. President-elect, Donald Trump, although specific preparations have yet to begin.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced on Monday that there is a political will to organise a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the U.S. President-elect, Donald Trump. As the Polish Press Agency reported, Peskov noted that no specific actions have been taken in this direction.
During his election campaign, Donald Trump promised to end Russia's war against Ukraine within six months or even within 24 hours. Keith Kellogg, the special envoy for the future U.S. President for Ukraine and Russia, declared that he would strive to resolve the conflict within 100 days of Trump's inauguration.
Michael Waltz, Trump's national security advisor, informed on Sunday in an interview with ABC that the President-elect plans to contact Putin soon. This conversation is intended to be part of the preparations for a meeting aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
Talks with Putin and new sanctions?
Trump, seeking to initiate talks with Russia, does not rule out new energy sanctions to force Putin to negotiate. Security advisor Mike Waltz emphasises that lifting restrictions on the use of American weapons might be the leverage that prompts the Kremlin to engage in dialogue.
The Russian economy feels the impact of Western-imposed sanctions, which significantly limit its growth. The economic crisis, exacerbated by a labour shortage and inflation, also affects the Russian elites, who show impatience with the prolonged conflict.
Despite calls for negotiations, Trump still hasn't defined a unified plan. Washington wants Europe to increase its involvement, which for Trump means engaging in talks with Kyiv and Moscow. A ceasefire is a priority for his administration, although the consequences of such decisions could affect long-term relations in the region and the reputation of the U.S.
