Putin signals willingness to discuss Ukraine ceasefire with Trump but sets strict conditions

Vladimir Putin is reportedly open to discussing a ceasefire in Ukraine with Donald Trump, who will take office in January. However, Putin has set strict demands, including Ukraine abandoning its NATO membership plans. While Russia claims to have gained more territory in eastern Ukraine, it is willing to negotiate the division of regions like Donetsk and Luhansk. Analysts suggest that Russia's goals remain unchanged, seeking full Ukrainian capitulation. Tensions are rising as Ukraine has begun using US-supplied missiles to strike Russian territory. The US embassy in Kyiv has evacuated staff due to warnings of a potential Russian retaliation, raising concerns about further escalation.