Putin announced his readiness for talks with Ukraine but set a condition for Zelensky.

Putin's words are quoted by the Russian propaganda agency TASS.

According to him, the negotiations will be illegitimate if Zelensky does not lift the ban on them. Russia, he claims, sees the statements from U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed hope for a meeting with Putin, and is "always open to this."

Thus, the Russian leader demands that Zelensky revoke the ban on negotiations.

Putin refers to the decision of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC), which Zelensky implemented in September 2022. This decision prohibits initiating talks with the current leader of the Russian Federation.

Andriy Yermak, the head of the President's Office, commented on the Kremlin leader's words. He stated that Putin is trying to "promote the idea of negotiations with the U.S.," but "wants to talk about Ukraine—without Ukraine."

"This will not happen. Putin needs to return to reality himself, or he will be returned," he said.

Putin's statement came amid remarks from Trump, who began threatening Russia with taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on everything it sells in the U.S. and other countries if Moscow does not halt its war against Ukraine and reach a peace agreement.

Subsequently, the American president also promised to negotiate with Saudi Arabia to lower global oil prices to pressure Russia.

Earlier, he mentioned plans to meet with Putin "very soon" after his inauguration. Reports from Switzerland and Serbia indicated they were ready to facilitate a meeting.

The U.S. presidential team also prepared for a phone call with the Russian leader.