Vladimir Putin has broken his silence following the US election and congratulated Donald Trump on his victory, hailing him as a "courageous man".
The Russian leader made his remarks during a speech at the Valdai Discussion Club on Thursday.
Trump, the President-elect, responded briefly to Putin's congratulatory message, stating simply: "I think we'll speak."
Putin specifically praised Trump's handling of an assassination attempt at a rally earlier this year, which left a strong impression on the Russian leader.
Vladimir Putin praised Donald Trump's reaction to his assassination attempt
Reuters
Speaking at the Valdai club thinktank, Putin commended Trump's courage during the incident.
The Russian President was impressed with how Trump handled himself saying, "he turned out to be a courageous person".
"People show who they are in extraordinary circumstances," Putin said.
"This is where a person reveals himself. And he showed himself, in my opinion, in a very correct manner, courageously. Like a man."
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Donald Trump said 'we'll speak' when told about Putin's comments
Reuters
The remarks came as part of a broader speech delivered by the Russian president at the annual forum.
In his address, Putin expressed readiness to resume contact with Western leaders following the breakdown in relations over Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The Russian president indicated his willingness to facilitate an end to the Ukrainian crisis, a stance which he noted "deserves attention."
His overture towards renewed dialogue comes amid long-standing tensions between Russia and Western nations over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
These comments mark a significant diplomatic gesture from the Russian leader, suggesting potential shifts in international relations following Trump's electoral victory.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said today that Russia's leadership is keeping in mind Trump's promise to resolve the biggest land war in Europe since World War Two.
Asked about Vice President Kamala Harris's warning that Putin would "eat Trump for lunch", Peskov laughed.
"Putin does not eat people," he said.
