Fri Nov 08 06:06:49 UTC 2024: ## Putin Congratulates Trump, Expresses Openness to Talks as Ukraine Scrambles for Support
Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Donald Trump on his victory in the US election, expressing his readiness for dialogue with the Republican president-elect. Putin praised Trump’s courage during a campaign rally attack and noted Trump’s desire to restore relations with Russia and help end the Ukrainian crisis.
The Kremlin has welcomed Trump’s past claims of being able to end the conflict in Ukraine within 24 hours, although they cautioned that concrete policy steps are needed. Trump, however, has provided few details on his plan for ending the conflict, which has become the largest land war in Europe since World War II.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is facing increased anxiety following Trump’s victory, fearing a potential shift in US support for their fight against Russia. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged allies for continued support and criticized those suggesting concessions to Russia. Zelenskyy also called for maintaining strong ties between Europe and the US, highlighting their shared need for strength and unity.
Reports suggest that President Biden is planning to accelerate billions of dollars in security assistance to Ukraine before leaving office in January. The US has already provided over $64.1 billion in military support to Ukraine since the Russian invasion in 2022.
The implications of Trump’s return to the White House for the ongoing war in Ukraine remain uncertain. While Putin has expressed willingness to engage with Trump, concerns remain about potential concessions to Russia and a potential decrease in US support for Ukraine.
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