Chicago – November 08, 2024
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated President-Elect Donald Trump on his election victory, calling him a “courageous man” who faced criticism “from all sides.” Putin also said he was ready to discuss the conflict in Ukraine with Trump once he takes office.
These were Putin’s first public comments on Trump’s win since Tuesday’s election. He made the remarks Thursday during a lengthy event at the Black Sea resort of Sochi.
Trump has repeatedly claimed he could end the war in Ukraine — which began with Russia’s unprovoked invasion in February 2022 — within “a day,” though he hasn’t provided details. Many wonder if Trump might use Putin’s open admiration of him to try to reach a peace deal.
Ukrainian officials, however, worry that U.S. military support might be reduced or stopped when Trump takes office in January. They also warn that Putin’s promises can’t be trusted.
Putin mentioned a July assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, saying it left a strong “impression” on him. “People show their true selves in extreme situations,” Putin said. “He showed himself, in my opinion, correctly and courageously.”
