Putin Congratulates Trump, Praises His “Courage” in Assassination Attempt
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered his congratulations to Donald Trump on his re-election victory, marking his first public comment on the US election, The Associated Press reports.
During a speech at an international forum in Sochi, Putin praised Trump’s “courage” during a July assassination attempt, stating that his behavior “left an impression” on him.
“He turned out to be a brave man,” Putin said. “He manifested himself in the very correct way, bravely as a man.”
Putin also expressed interest in Trump’s stated desire to improve relations with Russia and assist in resolving the Ukraine crisis.
The Kremlin has previously welcomed Trump’s assertion that he could resolve the conflict in Ukraine within 24 hours, but it has emphasized its need to see concrete policy actions.
Despite expressing interest in Trump’s statements, Putin acknowledged uncertainty regarding the future relationship between the two countries.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov suggested the possibility of a call between Putin and Trump before the inauguration, citing Trump’s previous statement that he would contact Putin prior to taking office.
However, Peskov reiterated Moscow’s view of the US as an “unfriendly” country actively involved in the Ukrainian conflict. He added that relations between Russia and the United States have already reached their “lowest point in history” and that it is up to the new US administration to change the dynamic.
