Russia’s president flattered his American counterpart as “smart” and “pragmatic,” and repeated Mr. Trump’s baseless claim that the 2020 election was stolen.

Putin has said repeatedly that he is prepared to negotiate an end to the war, which first began in 2014, but that Ukraine would have to accept the reality of Russian territorial gains, which are currently about 20% of its land. He also refuses to accept Ukraine joining Nato, the military alliance of Western countries.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he would impose high tariffs on Russia if President Vladimir Putin does not bring a stop to the "ridiculous" war in Ukraine. "Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War!