Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to engage in discussions “any time” with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Trump, who has boasted of his capability to broker a Ukraine peace agreement swiftly upon taking office, has raised concerns in Kyiv about the possibility of a settlement skewed in favor of Moscow.

As he prepares to return to the White House in January, Trump’s remarks have unsettled Ukrainian officials, who fear he might push them to agree to terms that benefit Russia.

During his annual year-end press conference, the 72-year-old Russian leader emphasized his military’s dominance on the battlefield but acknowledged a missed opportunity by not initiating the campaign sooner.

Despite his confidence, Putin conceded uncertainty about when Russia might regain control of the western Kursk region, which Ukrainian forces entered during an August incursion.

The yearly question-and-answer session, a staple of Putin’s leadership, combines elements of a televised spectacle with the occasional challenging inquiry, providing a rare forum for the Russian president to address tough questions.

This time, Putin spoke for just under four and a half hours.

When questioned about Trump’s interest in a potential peace accord, Putin stated, “I don’t know when I’m going to see him. He isn’t saying anything about it. I haven’t talked to him in more than four years. I am ready for it, of course. Any time.”

{Matzav.com}