Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated former President Donald Trump on his victory in the U.S. presidential election on the 7th (local time) and stated that he is ready to engage in talks with him.
According to RIA Novosti and Reuters, President Putin said during the plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club held in Sochi, southern Russia, “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate him on his election as the President of the United States.”
This marks the first time President Putin has publicly commented on President-elect Trump, who won the U.S. election on the 5th, amid sharp tensions between Russia and the United States over the “special military operation” in Ukraine.
He noted that it is “worthy of attention” that President-elect Trump declared during his campaign that he would resolve the Ukraine issue.
When asked about the possibility of communications with President-elect Trump, President Putin responded, “I am ready.”
Additionally, he mentioned that he is not embarrassed to speak with President-elect Trump over the phone and is also not opposed to resuming contacts with Western leaders.
He emphasized, “I have already said that we will work with any national leader who garners the trust of the American people.”
President Putin also praised President-elect Trump as “brave,” mentioning his impressive actions when faced with an assassination attempt.
AI anchor: Y-GO
Subtitle editing: Jeong Eui-jin