Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated U.S. President Donald Trump following his inauguration, and expressed hope for renewed engagement between Moscow and Washington.
During a rare Monday meeting of Russia’s Security Council—televised across state media—Putin emphasised his willingness to discuss major global issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and nuclear arms control.
“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 applauded Trump’s pledge to prevent world conflict, saying, “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.”
According to Reuters, this statement reflects cautious confidence within the Kremlin that Trump could pave the way for a thaw in US-Russia relations, which have deteriorated to their lowest point since the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.
However, Russian officials privately admit that their aspirations may be shattered by Washington’s policy difficulties.
Addressing the ongoing situation in Ukraine, Putin underlined the significance of long-term solutions rather than interim ones.
“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 professed willingness to engage in conversation, his insistence on the recognition of Russia’s territorial claims, which Ukraine rejects, remains a source of contention.
Trump has promised to end the battle quickly, but he has yet to explain how he intends to do so without jeopardising US and allied interests.
Putin also expressed Moscow’s willingness to engage in discussions about nuclear arms limitation, namely the renewal of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), which is slated to expire on February 5, 2026.
This pact remains the sole foundation for controlling nuclear weapons between the world’s two major nuclear powers.
