Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Donald Trump on his decisive victory in the US presidential election, expressing his readiness for discussions. At the Valdai forum, Putin praised Trump’s courage, particularly referencing his response to an assassination attempt earlier this year. Despite previously favoring Joe Biden, Putin’s comments suggest a willingness to engage with Trump’s unconventional political style. Meanwhile, European leaders, including Taoiseach Simon Harris, are preparing to assess the implications of Trump’s presidency on transatlantic relations, particularly in the context of trade and ongoing support for Ukraine.