Thu Nov 07 06:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Russia Holds Back on Congratulating Trump, Citing “Unfriendly” US-Russia Relations
**Moscow, Russia** – Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on Wednesday that he is “not aware of any plans” for Russian President Vladimir Putin to congratulate Donald Trump on his claimed victory in the US presidential election.
Peskov attributed this lack of congratulatory action to the “unfriendly” nature of US-Russia relations, highlighting the ongoing US support for Ukraine, which Russia considers a direct threat. He further emphasized the historically low point of bilateral relations, stating that “it is almost impossible to worsen them further.”
The Kremlin spokesperson did, however, reiterate Putin’s willingness for “constructive dialogue based on fairness and equality,” while acknowledging the current diametrically opposed positions of the US administration. Peskov concluded by saying that the future of US-Russia relations will be determined by the incoming US leadership.
In a separate statement, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova dismissed US accusations of interference in the election, suggesting that the US should focus on solving its own problems rather than seeking external issues.
Zakharova also stated that the outcome of the US election has “no difference” for Russia, citing the “two-party consensus” on confrontation with Russia. Despite this, Zakharova expressed a willingness to examine any changes in US policy that align with Russia’s interests, emphasizing that Russia will “resolutely defend its interests, particularly where national security is concerned.”
This development comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and the United States, with both countries engaging in accusations of interference in each other’s domestic affairs. The lack of congratulatory action by the Kremlin further underscores the strained relationship and casts uncertainty on the future of US-Russia relations.
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