Trump confirms plans for meeting with Putin as Kremlin expresses openness

US President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed plans for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump stated that Putin is eager to meet, but no specific date has been set. The Kremlin has expressed openness to the talks, pending Trump's inauguration on January 20. Putin's spokesman emphasized the need for mutual willingness to engage in dialogue. He noted that concrete steps for the meeting would begin after Trump takes office. The Kremlin has not provided details on when the meeting might occur. Earlier this week, Trump expressed sympathy for Russia's stance on NATO expansion, particularly regarding Ukraine's potential membership. Reports suggest the US may propose a twenty-year waiting period for Ukraine's NATO membership, but Russia has dismissed this idea.