Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his congratulations to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on his inauguration day, expressing optimism about the possibility of restoring dialogue between Moscow and Washington.
Speaking during a rare televised meeting of Russia’s Security Council on Monday, Putin emphasized his readiness to engage with Trump on key global issues, including the war in Ukraine and nuclear arms control.
He highlighted Trump’s statements about rebuilding direct contact with Russia and praised his commitment to preventing 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,” Putin said.
Putin’s remarks, reported by Reuters, reflect cautious optimism within the Kremlin. Relations between the two nations have reached their lowest point since the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, and Russian officials are aware that the complexities of U.S. policy could hinder progress.
On the war in Ukraine, Putin stressed the importance of finding a durable resolution instead of temporary measures. He called for a long-term peace plan that respects the interests of all peoples in the region.
“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,” Putin said.
Despite his willingness for dialogue, his insistence on recognizing Russia’s territorial claims remains a significant obstacle, as Ukraine and its Western allies continue to reject such demands.
Trump has promised to end the conflict swiftly but has yet to provide details on how he plans to achieve this without compromising U.S. and allied positions.
Putin also expressed Moscow’s willingness to engage in discussions about nuclear arms control, particularly the renewal of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START).
The treaty, which expires on February 5, 2026, remains the last standing framework regulating nuclear arsenals between the world’s two largest nuclear powers.
Putin’s openness to dialogue on this issue signals a potential area for cooperation between the two nations.
As Trump’s inauguration unfolded in Washington, the event marked a turning point in U.S.-Russia relations. Trump’s presidency has generated global anticipation, particularly in Moscow, where officials hope for a reset in relations.
However, the complexities of diplomacy and the potential for unresolved tensions leave the future uncertain. Putin’s congratulatory message sets a tone of cautious optimism as the world watches whether the Trump administration will chart a new course in U.S.-Russia relations or continue on the path of discord.