Mon Jan 20 20:54:27 IST 2025: ## Putin Congratulates Trump, Expresses Openness to Dialogue on Ukraine and Nuclear Arms

**Moscow, January 20, 2025** – Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his congratulations to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump hours before his inauguration, expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue with the new administration on key international issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and nuclear arms control.

In a televised meeting of Russia’s Security Council, Putin welcomed Trump’s stated desire to restore communication between Moscow and Washington, noting Trump’s emphasis on preventing World War III. He emphasized the need for a lasting peace in Ukraine, rejecting the idea of a temporary ceasefire that would simply allow for rearmament. Instead, Putin advocated for a long-term peace agreement that respects the interests of all people in the region.

The Russian President reiterated his readiness for discussions on nuclear arms control, particularly in light of the New START treaty’s expiration in February 2026. This treaty, the last remaining major nuclear arms control agreement between the U.S. and Russia, is crucial for maintaining strategic stability.

While expressing cautious optimism about improved relations with the incoming U.S. administration, Putin acknowledged the considerable challenges, given the historically low point in U.S.-Russia relations stemming from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. His stance maintains Russia’s previously stated position that any resolution must recognize Russia’s territorial gains in Ukraine, a condition that Ukraine has firmly rejected. Trump’s promise to swiftly end the war in Ukraine remains undefined in terms of implementation.

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