Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed openness to rebuilding relations with the new US administration, just hours ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, CNN reports
In a televised Russian Security Council meeting Monday, Putin said he welcomed statements from Trump and his team “expressing a desire to restore direct contact with Russia” and the “need to do everything to prevent a third world war,” emphasizing Moscow’s willingness to engage in dialogue.
“We certainly welcome this approach and congratulate the elected president of the United States of America on taking office,” he said. “I emphasize: we have never refused dialogue, have always been ready to maintain smooth cooperative relations with any American administration,” Putin added.
“We proceed from the fact that the dialogue will be built on an equal and mutually respectful basis, taking into account the significant role that our countries play on a number of key issues on the global agenda, including strengthening strategic stability and security.”
Putin took the opportunity to restate Russia’s position on a possible settlement in Ukraine.
“We are also open to dialogue with the new US administration on the Ukrainian conflict,” he said, stressing the importance of achieving long-term peace while reaffirming Russia’s commitment to protecting its interests.”
