Putin Lauds Trump’s ‘Courage’ in Victory, Signals Openness to Talks on Ukraine

The president of Russia, Vladimir Putin, addressed U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in the wake of the latter’s victory, terming the newly elected a “courageous man.” Mr. Putin spoke before a plenary conference session in Sochi about Trump’s “bravery,” noting that he had been “hounded from all sides” in his first term.

Putin also touched on Trump’s promise to resolve the Ukraine conflict, suggesting that when the latter declared he could end the war “in a day,” it at least deserved some notice. Trump has not laid out his plan, but he has consistently promised throughout his campaign that he would promptly end hostilities if given the opportunity.

During his lengthy address, which touched on many global issues, Putin also said that an attempted assassination of Trump in July “made an impression” upon him. The Russian leader went on to say the reaction of Showing defiance by raising his fist and mouthing the words “fight, fight, fight”-as Secret Service was escorting him out agents-exemplified “brave” behavior.

In response to whether Putin was ready to hold direct discussions with Trump, Putin said, “We’re ready, we’re ready.” On Thursday, Trump had already told NBC News that “I think we’ll speak,” a hint of being open to talking with the Kremlin.

Meanwhile, the implications of Trump’s return to the White House are significant enough to get European leaders into discussion. The new president-elect had already elicited comment from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: “It was a hot and very productive conversation.” For now, the Ukrainian leader seems optimistic but aware that continued US support remains crucial.

Amid the European summit in Budapest, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer assured Zelensky that the UK stands firmly alongside Ukraine, describing the support as “iron-clad.” Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, an ally of Trump’s, concurred but noted that there may be a few bumps in US-EU trade negotiations. “The trade issue with the US will come up, and it will not be easy,” Orban said, speaking about Trump’s already planned 10% tariffs on all imports.

Of the world watching Trump assume power, Europe’s leaders noted that what is more desired is more regional responsibility from member states, a shift that may change the dynamics of Europe and the US.

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