Kremlin hopes for rapport with US, but differences will stay
MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin’s spokesman voiced hope for a constructive dialogue with President Donald Trump’s administration in comments broadcast Saturday, but warned that differences will remain.
Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with state Rossiya television that it would be an “illusion” to expect that U.S.-Russian relations would be completely free of disagreements.
“Successful development of bilateral ties will depend on our ability to solve these differences through dialogue,” Peskov said. He added that Putin will call Trump soon to congratulate him.
Peskov’s sober assessment contrasted with euphoria in Russian political and business elites, where many expect a quick thaw in relations with the U.S. A few clubs and bars sought to cash in on public excitement, hosting parties to mark Trump’s inauguration.