Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his congratulations to Donald Trump as he assumed office for the second time. During a Security Council meeting on Monday, Putin praised Trump’s commitment to reestablish communication between the United States and Russia. He highlighted the importance of collaboration to prevent a third world war, emphasizing Russia’s willingness to engage constructively.
Russia Welcomes Renewed US Communication
Putin expressed his appreciation for the new administration’s intent to restore direct communication channels. He criticized the outgoing administration for interrupting these contacts and voiced optimism about improving bilateral relations.
“We value the new US President’s statements about restoring direct contact with Russia,” Putin said. “We also welcome his pledge to take measures to avoid a third world war.” He further congratulated Trump on his inauguration and reiterated Russia’s readiness to discuss the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Trump, who has promised to mediate peace in Ukraine, recently hinted at a planned meeting with Putin. On January 9, he said, “President Putin wants to meet; he’s said that even publicly, and we have to get that war over with.”
The two leaders have met previously, notably at a 2018 summit in Helsinki, where they discussed various issues and appeared to develop a warm rapport.
The Escalating Ukraine Conflict
Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine continues to escalate, with both Moscow and Kyiv pursuing battlefield advantages to strengthen their negotiating positions. Now nearing its third year, the conflict remains at a stalemate.
Over the past year, Russian forces have advanced steadily in eastern and southern Ukraine, aiming to secure full control over four annexed regions. These territories—Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson—remain contested despite Moscow’s claims of annexation. Russia has also intensified missile and drone strikes, targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
In response, Ukraine has conducted unprecedented incursions into Russian territory. Since August last year, Kyiv has pushed into Russia’s Kursk region, occupying significant areas temporarily. Ukraine’s use of American long-range weapons has further shifted the dynamic, with missiles targeting Russian oil facilities and key infrastructure.
Negotiations Remain Stalled
Despite calls for peace, both sides remain firm in their demands. Putin has declared readiness for talks, but insists any peace deal must recognize the “realities on the ground.” He has also demanded Ukraine abandon its NATO aspirations and withdraw from the annexed regions.
Ukraine and its Western allies have rejected these terms, citing territorial integrity as non-negotiable. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for Russia’s withdrawal from all occupied regions as a prerequisite for peace. While Kyiv has sought NATO membership, allies have shown hesitation, instead offering security guarantees to bolster Ukraine’s position.
Currently, Russia controls about one-fifth of Ukraine, including Crimea, which was annexed in 2014. As of late 2024, Moscow has maintained the battlefield initiative, achieving some of the largest gains since the conflict began.
The future of peace in Ukraine remains uncertain, with little progress toward compromise and continued fighting on multiple fronts.
