National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended his congratulations to Donald Trump following his victory in the 2024 US presidential election and expressed his openness to holding discussions with the former president.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Forum in Sochi on Thursday, Putin said, “I take this opportunity to congratulate him.” When asked if he was willing to engage with Trump in talks, Putin replied simply, “Ready.”
Before the election, Putin had indicated a preference for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, suggesting they would be more favorable for Russia’s interests. However, Russia has long been seen as welcoming Trump’s unorthodox, anti-establishment approach and the disruptions he has caused in both American and global politics.
Putin also praised Trump’s courage, particularly highlighting his handling of an assassination attempt during a rally earlier this year. “He turned out to be a courageous person,” Putin said, adding, “People reveal themselves in extraordinary circumstances, and he showed himself in a very correct and courageous manner.”
Despite past accusations that Moscow interfered in the 2016 US elections to bolster Trump’s campaign, the Kremlin has consistently denied these charges. As the US heads into a new era under Trump’s leadership, the prospect of renewed dialogue between the two leaders has become a key point of interest on the global stage.
