MOSCOW (Reuters) – Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Wednesday that Ukraine would not be omitted from negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, underscoring the significance of bolstering trust between Moscow and Washington for the success of such talks. Following the first discussions between Russia and the United States on resolving the three-year war, Putin emphasized the need to establish a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump, a process that he acknowledged would require time and meaningful content beyond mere pleasantries. He lauded the recent talks in Saudi Arabia, where both countries agreed to designate negotiating teams for addressing the Ukrainian crisis and explored avenues for revitalizing their strained bilateral relations, characterized by the Kremlin as being at a historical low during Trump’s predecessor’s term.
“In my view, the initial steps have been taken towards resuming cooperation in various areas of mutual interest,” Putin remarked during televised remarks, touching upon matters concerning the Middle East, global energy markets, and space collaboration. “Without elevating the level of trust between Russia and the United States, it remains unfeasible to tackle numerous challenges, including the Ukrainian crisis.”
Notably absent from the discussions in Riyadh were Ukraine and key European governments, prompting concerns about a potential Russo-American pact that overlooks their crucial security concerns. Putin sought to allay these apprehensions, affirming that Russia had never rebuffed dialogues with European entities or Kyiv, clarifying that the reluctance to engage in talks had come from their side.
“Ukraine is not being sidelined,” Putin reassured, urging a calm and rational approach to the U.S.-Russia dialogues. “If they desire, negotiations may proceed with their involvement, and we stand prepared to resume the dialogue at any given moment.”
Expressing his willingness to engage in talks with Trump, whom he has recently praised for his diplomatic composure in the face of what he deemed as disrespectful conduct from U.S. allies, Putin stressed the necessity for substantive discussions focused on pivotal issues pertinent to both nations. He hinted at the complexities involved in resolving the Ukrainian conflict, revealing that Trump had transitioned from his previous pledge to end the war within 24 hours to now contemplating a more realistic timeline of six months, reflecting an evolution in his understanding of the situation.
Regarding energy matters, Putin disclosed that he, Trump, and the Saudi king had previously engaged in trilateral discussions, signaling the need for a renewed exchange in that format. Putin emphasized the intricate nature of the discussions ahead, highlighting the imperative for thorough preparations to address crucial issues affecting both countries.
(Reporting by Marina Bobrova, Maxim Rodionov, and Darya Korsunskaya; writing by Mark Trevelyan; editing by Mark Heinrich)
