Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his readiness on Thursday to engage in discussions with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, congratulating him on his recent election victory. Putin’s comments came during his address at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate him,” Putin remarked, adding that he is “ready” to meet with Trump.
Prior to the U.S. election, Putin had indicated a preference for a Biden or Harris presidency when asked which candidate might best serve Russia’s interests. However, Moscow has often shown an affinity for Trump’s anti-establishment stance, which has stirred the American political landscape and reverberated worldwide.
Putin also commended Trump for his resilience during a recent assassination attempt at a campaign rally. “He turned out to be a courageous person,” Putin noted. “In extraordinary circumstances, people show who they are, and he revealed himself to be courageous and resolute, like a man.”
Despite past accusations of Kremlin interference in the 2016 election to favor Trump’s campaign against Hillary Clinton, Moscow has consistently denied any involvement.
