Putin signals readiness for talks on Ukraine, open to compromise but firm on key terms. Russia advances in conflict, as Moscow calls for legitimate Ukrainian authorities in any deal.

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed a willingness to negotiate over Ukraine during potential talks with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, stating Russia had no preconditions for discussions with Kyiv.

Speaking during his annual Q&A on state TV, Putin said Russia was open to compromises but insisted any deal must involve Ukraine's legitimate authorities, which he defined as its parliament. He suggested President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would need re-election to ensure any agreement's legitimacy.

Putin referred to a preliminary agreement from early talks in Istanbul as a possible basis for negotiations, though many Ukrainian officials view it as a concession undermining their sovereignty.

He dismissed claims of Russian weakness, asserting its military strength had grown since the 2022 invasion.

The conflict, which Putin frames as a defensive action against NATO expansion, has caused widespread devastation, leaving tens of thousands dead and displacing millions. Russia controls about a fifth of Ukraine, with its forces continuing to advance in key eastern regions.

Putin also addressed broader topics, including Russia's military bases in Syria, high domestic inflation, and the potential use of the hypersonic "Oreshnik" missile, challenging Western air defence systems to intercept it.

He expressed readiness to speak with Syrian leaders about missing U.S. journalist Austin Tice, highlighting Russia's enduring role in Middle Eastern affairs.

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