Putin’s Message to Trump: Russia Respects US National Interests, Seeks Reciprocity

In a clear message sent on Sunday (18.05.25), Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia respects the national interests of the United States and expects the same treatment for its own interests. This statement comes as Putin awaits a call from his American counterpart. “The Americans, the American people, and leadership, including the president, have their national interests. We respect them and believe we will be treated the same way,” Putin stated in an interview with Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin. Addressing Russia’s involvement in Ukraine, Putin reiterated Moscow’s aim is to secure the interests of its people in those territories where individuals consider Russian as their native language and Russia as their homeland. He also mentioned that the outcome of his ‘special military operation’ should lead to lasting peace. Meanwhile, Donald Trump announced he would engage in separate phone calls with Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and NATO leaders on Monday in an effort to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine. The discussions are set to begin at 10:00 AM EST (17:00 Greek time).