In a bold statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the Trump administration is receptive to the Kremlin's explanations regarding its invasion of Ukraine. Speaking in China, Putin proclaimed a new "mutual understanding" between Moscow and Washington.

During a bilateral meeting with pro-Russian Slovak President Robert Fico, Putin lauded the Trump administration's alleged willingness to listen, contrasting it with the previous Biden administration, which he accused of ignoring Russia's perspectives. "Now we see this mutual understanding; it’s noticeable," he stated, expressing hope for ongoing constructive dialogue.

However, Putin's optimism comes amid significant tensions, as Trump has voiced frustration over Russia's lack of engagement in peace efforts led by the U.S. The American president has threatened potential "severe consequences" for Russia, emphasizing that ending the drawn-out conflict remains a key diplomatic focus.

Putin attended a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Tianjin, China, alongside leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Originally a security coalition to counter U.S. influence in Central Asia, the SCO's role has expanded over the years.

While Putin projected a cooperative demeanor regarding peace talks, analysts noted that there was little change in Russia's fundamental stance on the conflict. Western leaders argue that Putin is stalling negotiations while continuing military operations against Ukraine.

On the hotly debated issue of security guarantees for Ukraine post-conflict, Putin suggested a potential pathway to consensus but did not provide specifics. He reaffirmed that Russia opposes NATO membership for Ukraine but expressed no objections to Ukraine's aspirations to join the European Union.

In a notable shift, Putin mentioned that Russia is ready to collaborate with American partners regarding the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the largest in Europe, amid fears of nuclear risks due to the ongoing war. He indicated a willingness to engage with Ukraine on this matter if conditions are favorable.

As Slovakia's Fico prepares to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss recent Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, tensions remain high. Slovakia and Hungary, which have resisted arms support for Ukraine, voiced opposition to these strikes, particularly against the Druzhba oil pipeline. Both nations, along with the Czech Republic, continue to import Russian oil, defying EU sanctions.

Fico emphasized his desire to mend relations and enhance business ties with Russia, while maintaining critical energy imports from the Kremlin.