Many characterize Putin's current position as taking as much territory as possible, while staying in the game long enough for US political climate to change. So I'd posit back, how would Putin's posture change if the US right was as aligned as the left on supporting Ukraine as long as it took? I suspect he would have taken a deal long ago.
Trump wants it to look as though he is the one making the deal happen, but the reality is he's the only reason it has not happened already. IMHO.
I agree with your point about Putin waiting for the WH administration to change. Were the president hawkish on Russia, however, I still doubt Putin would back down.
Putin needs to be seen to win at home to play to his core base. Biden wouldn't let him, Trump will, but to Putin that means:
1. Control of annexed territory.
2. No Ukrainian nukes.
3. No NATO/EU membership for Ukraine.
4. Zelenski removed and puppet/anti-democratic leader installed.
What we're hearing post-meeting is Trump laying the groundwork for point 4 and taking a firm position on 1.
Trump wants it to look as though he is the one making the deal happen, but the reality is he's the only reason it has not happened already. IMHO.