Putin signals readiness for talks as Zelensky decree stands

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, as Zelensky previously decided to ban direct dialogue with the Russian Federation."

Putin refers to the decree signed by Zelensky on September 30, 2022.

Decree No. 679/2022 concerns "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 in the current situation, it is impossible to negotiate with the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.

When asked about his relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, the Russian leader responded: - I have always had business relations, solely business, but they are, I would say, pragmatic and trusting.

He stated 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, information appeared on two Russian channels on Telegram about a convoy of cars speeding towards the Kremlin. Putin's limousine was recognized among them. The authors of the posts linked this information to the words of President Donald Trump, who declared that he would like to "talk to Putin as soon as possible."

Earlier, during a speech in Davos, Trump said that "Ukraine is ready to make a 'deal' with Russia to end the war." He also stated that he would strive to lower oil prices to end the war in Ukraine. "I will ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to lower the price of oil. It needs to be lowered! The war needs to end!"