Throughout the U.S. presidential election, President Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin showed a preference for Donald Trump, believing that his return to the presidency could benefit Russia’s interests. Despite the lack of an official congratulations to Trump on his victory, high-ranking officials in the Kremlin expressed cautious optimism in private. They believe that a Trump presidency could potentially lead to improved relations with Washington, a weakened European Union, and progress in Russia’s war on Ukraine. Russian officials are hopeful for negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine once Trump takes office and forms his team.
As the U.S. presidential election results were being tallied, President Putin participated in the launch of the Chukotka nuclear icebreaker via video link. The Kremlin had intended this gesture to showcase Russia’s economic power and technological prowess. Despite Putin’s previous statements favoring Joe Biden, it was revealed that the Kremlin was actually backing Trump for a second term in office. Russian officials are pleased that Republicans may have control of both chambers of Congress, reducing potential opposition to Trump’s policies. However, concerns remain about possible actions by the outgoing Biden administration during the transition period.
Bilateral dialogue between Russia and the U.S. is currently frozen, with hopes that some contact may be restored in the future. Moscow anticipates appointing a new ambassador to Washington following Trump’s inauguration. There is recognition that dialogue may be slow to fully resume due to American political inertia and bipartisan consensus on Russia. Additionally, Moscow sees potential benefits in Trump reducing U.S. involvement in European security. Kremlin officials expressed enthusiasm for Trump’s victory while remaining critical of the U.S. electoral process, encompassing a range of perspectives on the implications of Trump’s presidency.
Some officials in Moscow expressed optimism for a normalization of international relations under a Trump administration. They highlighted potential areas of cooperation and hope for positive shifts in the future. Others were more cautious, doubting the possibility of major breakthroughs and expressing concerns about potential conflicts intensifying in regions such as the Middle East and the Taiwan Strait. Despite varying viewpoints, there is an overall sentiment of interest and anticipation for what the future holds under a second Trump presidency. The Moscow Times continues to report on unfolding developments, facing challenges in an increasingly restrictive media environment in Russia.
As Russia navigates the shifting dynamics of U.S.-Russia relations under a second Trump presidency, officials in Moscow are closely monitoring developments and preparing for potential areas of cooperation with the new administration. The optimism and caution expressed by Russian officials reflect a mix of hope for positive changes and concerns about potential challenges. From the war in Ukraine to broader international issues, the implications of Trump’s victory are being analyzed and anticipated in various sectors within the Russian government and business elite. The future trajectory of U.S.-Russia relations remains uncertain but will be closely watched by both sides in the coming months.
