A file photo from June 28, 2019, shows Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin shaking hands during a meeting at the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan. AP Photo
Russian President Vladimir Putin recently commended U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, calling him an “intelligent politician” capable of resolving global conflicts, including the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, Putin voiced significant concerns about Trump’s safety, highlighting multiple assassination attempts against the former president. At the same time, Putin issued a stark warning to Ukraine, threatening to deploy Russia’s powerful Oreshnik missiles.
In a press conference held in Kazakhstan, Putin discussed attacks targeting Trump, including a July incident in Pennsylvania during a campaign rally where a bullet grazed Trump’s ear, causing visible injury. Another alarming event occurred in September at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, where a man armed with a rifle was arrested near one of Trump’s golf courses. These acts, Putin remarked, showcased the intense hostility Trump faces, describing such tactics as “uncivilized.”
Despite the dangers, Putin expressed confidence in Trump’s abilities, stating, “As far as I can imagine, the newly elected president is an intelligent and already quite experienced person. I think he will find a solution.” However, Putin cautioned Trump to remain vigilant, emphasizing the risks posed by those opposing him.
Putin also speculated on the Biden administration’s policies toward Russia, suggesting they might be aimed at escalating tensions. He proposed that the U.S. could be setting the stage for Trump to address these issues if he returns to office or deliberately complicating his potential relationship with Moscow. While reiterating that Russia remains open to dialogue, Putin pointed out Trump’s promise to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, though no details of such a plan have been disclosed.
Amid these developments, Putin turned his focus to Ukraine, warning of possible missile strikes on key targets in Kyiv. Russia’s new Oreshnik missile, recently deployed in an attack on Dnipro, has been described as nearly impossible to intercept with existing air defense systems. The missile is capable of carrying multiple warheads and could even support nuclear payloads, though Putin clarified it is not currently armed with nuclear warheads.
“We will use the means at our disposal,” Putin declared, suggesting that military, industrial, and strategic decision-making centers in Kyiv could be targeted. He justified these threats by accusing Kyiv of attempting strikes on Russia’s vital facilities.
Putin claimed that repeated strikes using Oreshnik missiles could match the impact of nuclear weapons, raising alarm about the potential consequences of escalating conflict. This warning follows Western countries’ decision to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles, which Putin perceives as a direct response to Russia’s military actions.
