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Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin
Russian President Vladimir Putin extended congratulations to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on his inauguration day, expressing optimism for renewed dialogue between Moscow and Washington.
Speaking during a rare Monday meeting of Russia’s Security Council—televised across state media—Putin underscored his openness to discussions on critical global issues, including the war in Ukraine and nuclear arms control, reports Reuters.
“We see the statements by the newly elected president of the United States and members of his team about the desire to restore direct contacts with Russia,” Putin remarked.
He also welcomed Trump’s commitment to averting global conflict.
“We also hear his statement about the need to do everything possible to prevent World War Three. We, of course, welcome this attitude and congratulate the elected president of the United States of America on taking office.”
This statement, Reuters says highlights cautious optimism within the Kremlin that Trump could pave the way for a thaw in U.S.-Russia relations, which have been strained to their lowest point since the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.
However, Russian officials privately acknowledge that these hopes could be dashed by Washington’s policy complexities.
Not Just Ceasefire in Ukraine
Addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Putin emphasised the importance of durable solutions rather than temporary measures.
“The goal should not be a brief ceasefire, not some kind of period of respite that would allow a regrouping and rearmament of forces, but a long-term peace based on respect for the legitimate interests of all people and all peoples who live in the region,” he said.
Despite Putin’s stated readiness for dialogue, his insistence that Russia’s territorial claims be recognized—a stance rejected by Ukraine—remains a sticking point.
Trump, who has pledged to swiftly end the conflict, has yet to detail how he plans to achieve this without compromising U.S. and allied positions.
Nuclear Arms Control
Putin also signalled Moscow’s willingness to engage in discussions about nuclear arms control, particularly the renewal of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), set to expire on February 5, 2026.
This treaty remains the last standing framework regulating nuclear arsenals between the world’s two largest nuclear powers.
Trump’s inauguration ceremony was underway at the time of filing this report, with his swearing-in just an hour or two away.
The historic event marks the beginning of a presidency that has generated both anticipation and uncertainty, particularly in the context of US-Russia relations and global geopolitical shifts, PUNCH Online reports.
