Russian President Vladimir Putin offered both praise and a stark warning to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump during a press conference at a security summit in Astana, Kazakhstan. Calling Trump "intelligent" and "experienced," Putin emphasized the challenges Trump faces as he prepares to take office and cautioned that he remains "not safe," referring to past assassination attempts.
"What struck me the most is not that Donald Trump was faced with uncivilized means-including assassination attempts-more than once," Putin stated, according to the Associated Press. In July, Trump was wounded during an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania. The Russian president added, "By the way, in my view, even now he's not safe. But he is a clever and cautious man, I should hope he realizes all that."
Putin's comments also included sharp criticism of President Joe Biden's administration, accusing it of creating "additional difficulties" for the incoming Trump administration. Specifically, he condemned the decision to allow Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike Russian targets.
The Russian leader's remarks reflect a clear shift in tone toward Trump, contrasting with his criticism of the Biden administration's handling of the war in Ukraine. Putin expressed optimism that Trump could "come up with a solution" to end the conflict. "I think he will find a solution," Putin said, adding that Trump's recent election victory demonstrated his resilience after enduring "such a serious test."
Trump has repeatedly vowed to bring the nearly three-year-long war in Ukraine to an end within 24 hours of taking office. While the president-elect has not detailed his strategy, he has emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities. "They're dying, Russians and Ukrainians," Trump said earlier this year during a CNN town hall. "I want them to stop dying. And I'll have that done-I'll have that done in 24 hours."
The mutual gestures of openness between Trump and Putin signal potential changes in U.S.-Russia relations. Putin noted his willingness to engage in dialogue with Trump, stating, "We are always ready to negotiate with full consideration of mutual legitimate interests."
However, Putin also expressed skepticism about the West's intentions, accusing Western leaders of pushing the world toward a "dangerous line." He criticized NATO's expansion and the continued promise of eventual membership for Ukraine and Georgia, which he described as provocations against Russia. "It is useless to put pressure on us," Putin declared.
Putin's praise of Trump extended to his family, as he expressed dismay over what he termed the "revolting" treatment of the Trump family by political opponents. Russian "bandits wouldn't stoop so low," he claimed, according to Reuters.
Despite the warming rhetoric toward Trump, Russia has repeatedly dismissed allegations of meddling in U.S. elections. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov addressed recent claims with humor, responding to a comment from Vice President Kamala Harris suggesting that "Putin would eat Trump for lunch." Peskov quipped, "Putin does not eat people."
The war in Ukraine remains a central issue in U.S.-Russia relations. Putin reiterated that Russia's demands include Ukraine dropping its NATO aspirations and recognizing Russian sovereignty over Crimea and other contested regions. The conflict has entered what many officials believe could be its final, most dangerous phase, as Russia intensifies its military operations.
