Putin signals shift on Ukraine War, suggests talks without preconditions

UPDATED: Dec 21, 2024 22:32 IST

In a surprising move, Russian President Vladimir Putin is signalling a potential shift in his stance on the war in Ukraine.

The President suggested the possibility of talks with Ukraine — without setting any preconditions. During an appearance on Russian state TV, Putin said he is ready to meet President-elect Donald Trump to discuss ending the war. Trump, known for his self-styled negotiating skills, has vowed to resolve the conflict quickly. However, he is yet to outline his plan.

Putin's statements have raised eyebrows. For a long time, Russia has insisted that Ukraine must abandon its ambitions to join NATO before any discussions could take place. However, priorities are now changing. The Russian President stated that there are no conditions for starting talks with Ukraine, adding that Moscow is open to negotiations with anyone, including President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Despite this olive branch, Putin clarified that any deal could only be signed with what Russia considers Ukraine's legitimate authorities—namely, the Ukrainian parliament. This leaves Zelensky's role as a signatory uncertain, as his term is set to expire soon, and re-election would be necessary for Moscow to recognize him.

However, Putin dismissed the idea of a temporary truce. The President insisted that only a long-term peace deal with Ukraine would end the war. He emphasized that any talks must begin with the agreement made early in the war during negotiations in Istanbul—a deal that many Ukrainians equate with surrender.

Putin’s words may sound conciliatory, but the context is crucial. At the battlefield developments, Russian forces have already been advancing across Ukraine, securing key territories in the east.

However, Ukraine has made its stance very clear: It will not cede its sovereignty for peace. So, will Putin’s olive branch lead to peace, or is it another stalling tactic in a war that has already cost so much?