Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed a readiness to rebuild relations with the incoming US administration, just hours before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Speaking at a televised meeting of the Russian Security Council on Monday, Putin welcomed statements from Trump and his team, which indicated a desire to re-establish direct communication with Russia and work toward preventing global conflict. He highlighted Moscow’s openness to dialogue, underscoring the importance of cooperation.
“We certainly welcome this approach and congratulate the elected president of the United States of America on taking office,” he said. “I emphasize: we have never refused dialogue, have always been ready to maintain smooth cooperative relations with any American administration,” Putin added.
“We proceed from the fact that the dialogue will be built on an equal and mutually respectful basis, taking into account the significant role that our countries play on a number of key issues on the global agenda, including strengthening strategic stability and security.”
Additionally, Putin used the moment to restate Russia’s stance on the situation in Ukraine.
“We are also open to dialogue with the new US administration on the Ukrainian conflict,” he said, emphasizing the importance of reaching a lasting peace while reaffirming Russia’s commitment to safeguarding its interests.
