Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Thursday that the nature of his relationship with the United States following the upcoming presidential elections will depend on Washington’s attitude. He welcomed Donald Trump’s remarks about his desire to resolve the Ukraine conflict, calling them “sincere.” However, Putin maintained a hardline stance, warning the West that it was an “illusion” to believe Russia could be defeated on the battlefield and that any peace agreement must acknowledge Russia’s control over significant parts of Ukrainian territory.
Putin made these comments at the conclusion of the BRICS summit in Kazan, where leaders from some of Russia’s key allies urged an end to the fighting in Ukraine. He remarked, “How Russian-American relations will develop after the election will depend on the United States. If they are open, then we will also be open. And if they don’t want it, then fine.”
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Relations between the U.S. and Russia have deteriorated to their lowest point since the Cold War due to Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine. The upcoming U.S. election is anticipated to play a crucial role in shaping future relations and the ongoing conflict.
Trump has consistently expressed skepticism regarding the U.S. government’s substantial financial support for Ukraine, asserting that he could resolve the conflict swiftly if re-elected. In his comments, Putin noted, “Trump spoke about his desire to do everything to end the conflict in Ukraine. I think he is being sincere. Of course, we welcome statements like this, whoever they come from.”
The BRICS summit in Kazan was attended by around 20 leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking the largest diplomatic event in Russia since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
