In his first public remarks since Donald Trump’s recent electoral victory, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the U.S. President-elect, commending his courage during a contentious campaign season. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin acknowledged Trump’s resilience, specifically highlighting his composed response during an alleged assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally in July. “He behaved, in my opinion, in a very correct way, courageously, like a real man,” Putin remarked.

Putin emphasized Moscow’s willingness to work with any leader the American people elect, expressing openness to resuming dialogue with Washington under Trump’s administration. “I do not consider it shameful for me to call him myself. I just do not do it,” he said, referencing past interactions with Western leaders. His statement followed Trump’s comments indicating a readiness to communicate with global leaders as he assumes office.

The Russian president also pointed to Trump’s campaign statements on Ukraine and his expressed desire to improve relations with Russia. “What was said about the desire to restore relations with Russia, to bring about the end of the Ukrainian crisis, in my opinion, this deserves attention,” Putin noted, referring to Trump’s bold claim that he could achieve peace in Ukraine within 24 hours.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov tempered expectations regarding Trump’s ambitious statements on resolving the Ukrainian conflict, noting, “Certainly, there’s nothing that can heal this problem overnight.” However, he added that if the incoming administration pursues peace, it would be preferable to a continued conflict. Peskov also dismissed a previous comment by Vice President Kamala Harris about Putin “eating Trump for lunch,” quipping, “Putin doesn’t eat people.”

Putin’s remarks come amid increasing speculation about a potential Trump-Putin phone conversation, as Russian and Western officials hint that the Ukrainian conflict may be nearing a decisive phase.