### Putin Expresses Readiness to Engage with Trump After Election Victory

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended his congratulations to Donald Trump following Trump's recent election triumph, signaling a willingness to engage with the new U.S. administration. Speaking at a policy forum in Sochi, Russia, on Thursday, Putin seized the opportunity to laude Trump's victory and express readiness for potential discussions.

Responding to an inquiry from the event's moderator about the prospect of talks with Trump, Putin confidently stated, "We are ready." He emphasized that Russia had not been responsible for degrading relations with the United States and expressed an openness to restoring them, putting the onus on the American side to take the next steps.

Addressing Trump's campaign promise to deliver a swift resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, Putin remarked that the proposal warrants careful consideration. Trump’s critical stance on the extensive U.S. aid to Ukraine, which has surpassed $100 billion since Russia's military intervention in 2022, has raised concerns in Kyiv and among European Union nations. These entities fear that Trump might lean towards a peace agreement heavily favoring Moscow.

Putin also referenced the political dynamics within Washington, noting that internal forces had previously prevented Trump from fulfilling his pledges to enhance U.S.-Russia relations during his last term. Furthermore, the Kremlin leader commended Trump for his composure during a recent assassination attempt, describing him as a "brave man" who impressed with his reaction at that critical moment.

The Russian president's comments suggest a cautious optimism for renewed diplomatic engagement, pending actions from the incoming U.S. administration.