Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Donald Trump on his election win, praising his courage during an assassination attempt and expressing readiness for dialogue. Putin highlighted Trump’s statements on Ukraine and improving relations with Russia. He mentioned Trump’s promise to bring peace to Ukraine but expressed uncertainty about the future. Putin stated that he was open to resuming contacts if the Trump administration desired, despite allegations of collusion that have been proven false.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Putin outlined his terms for ending the conflict, demanding Ukraine drop its NATO aspirations and withdraw troops from disputed regions. He accused Western leaders of pushing the world toward a dangerous line by interfering in Ukraine. Putin expressed Russia’s willingness to negotiate based on mutual interests, criticizing NATO’s expansion towards Russia after the Soviet Union’s fall. He emphasized that Russia was ready to restore relations with the United States, with China as its ally.
When asked about Kamala Harris’ comment that Putin would eat Trump for lunch, a Kremlin spokesman joked that Putin does not eat people. Overall, Putin’s remarks during the Valdai discussion club highlighted his stance on international relations, particularly with the United States and Ukraine, as well as his readiness for dialogue with the incoming U.S. administration.
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