Donald Trump celebrated a “magnificent” victory over Kamala Harris on Wednesday, claiming one of the most remarkable comebacks in U.S. political history as results solidified his win.
A Trump victory carries significant implications not only domestically but also for U.S. relations with Russia. In recent years, ties between the two countries have hit historic lows, strained by the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine, sanctions, diplomatic standoffs, and allegations of Russian election interference.
However, Trump has long expressed admiration for President Vladimir Putin, often emphasizing his “very good relationship” with the Russian leader.
While Putin has not yet commented on the election outcome, Kremlin media outlets shared the congratulatory message he sent Trump after his 2016 win. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova also remarked on Rossia 24 TV that Trump’s focus on addressing America’s “sickness” and societal problems is an encouraging sign. She added on Telegram, “Those who win are the ones who live with love for their own country, not with hatred toward others.”
Throughout his campaign, Trump suggested he would reduce U.S. aid to Ukraine in its defense against Russian forces. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev echoed this on Telegram, saying, “Trump hates spending money on various hangers-on and freeloaders—foolish allies, pointless charity, and bloated organizations.” Medvedev argued that Ukraine falls into this category, though he noted that “the system is stronger” than Trump’s stance alone.
Leonid Slutsky, head of the State Duma’s Foreign Affairs Committee, also suggested that a Trump administration could create an “opportunity” to improve U.S.-Russia relations, as “the Republican team does not plan to keep funneling American taxpayers’ money into a proxy war against Russia.”
