Putin Congratulates Trump, Praises His Courage Amid Assassination Attempt, and Welcomes Dialogue*

SOCHI, RUSSIA, Nov 8 — Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Donald Trump on his election victory and commended his courage during a July assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Speaking at the Valdai discussion club, Putin described Trump’s response as "courageous" and said, “He behaved like a real man.”

Putin noted that Trump’s campaign remarks about improving relations with Russia and resolving the Ukrainian crisis were worthy of attention. He expressed uncertainty about future developments but stated that he was ready for dialogue with the Trump administration if initiated.

Putin also dismissed claims from Western media suggesting Trump was a Russian agent, pointing out that Trump was tough on Russia during his first term. He highlighted the ongoing war in Ukraine, which he described as entering a dangerous phase, and reiterated Russia’s conditions for peace, including Ukraine's NATO withdrawal.

Despite criticizing Western leaders for their actions in Ukraine, Putin emphasized Russia’s willingness to negotiate based on mutual interests. He remarked that while Russia is open to restoring relations with the U.S., the decision rests with Washington. When asked about Vice President Kamala Harris’s warning that Putin would take advantage of Trump, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov humorously remarked, “Putin does not eat people