Russia sees small window of opportunity to do deals with Trump, diplomat says

Russia sees a narrow window of opportunity for negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump but is preparing for future discussions, a senior Russian diplomat said Wednesday.

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, who oversees U.S. relations, told Moscow’s Institute for U.S. and Canadian Studies that Russia is evaluating how to approach Washington under the new administration.

"Compared to the hopelessness in every aspect of the previous White House chief, there is a window of opportunity today, albeit a small one," Ryabkov said, referring to President Joe Biden’s tenure.

Ryabkov stressed the need to "maximize opportunities and minimize risks" in bilateral ties while noting that Moscow awaits more clarity from Washington before coordinating talks between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump, in his inauguration speech, credited divine intervention for surviving an assassination attempt in June. He pledged to "make America far more exceptional than ever before."

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is sworn-in as the 47th president of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts as Melania Trump holds the Bible on the inauguration day of his second Presidential term in Washington, U.S. January 20, 2025 Reuters

Since taking office, Trump has expressed a desire to end the war in Ukraine but warned of sanctions if Putin refuses to negotiate. Putin has said he is open to talks but insists Russia’s control of 20% of Ukraine must be recognized and that Ukraine must remain neutral.

Ryabkov later told the TASS news agency that preparations are underway for potential meetings between Putin and Trump, but no firm plans have been set.

"Probably when we hear something more clear and concrete from Washington, then we'll get down to coordinating schedules and organizational points," he said.