Trump Emphasizes the Need for Good Relations with Russia

The President of the United States, during a press conference, refrained from directly describing Russia's recent actions as threatening in Europe, emphasizing that Washington should establish better relations with Moscow. Donald Trump, on September 6, appeared before reporters alongside the President of Finland, who was visiting Washington. During this press conference, Finnish journalists inquired about tensions with Russia, specifically asking if Trump considers them a threat. The U.S. President stated, "Unfortunately, I consider many countries a security threat." He added, "I see security threats from many countries, but these are threats we are capable of addressing." Journalists further questioned him about recent military exercises by Russia and China in the Baltic Sea and upcoming maneuvers by Russia concerning these countries. They referred to naval exercises by Chinese and Russian ships in Kaliningrad, a region separate from Russian territory neighboring Poland in the Baltic Sea, as well as an exercise set to begin in two weeks involving tens of thousands of military and technical personnel. Trump stated that the U.S. fully supports this region: "That's all I can say. We will protect it very, very well. We have very good friends there." The U.S. President continued, saying, "Let me say this loud and clear; I have been saying this for years. I think it is good if we have excellent or at least good relations with Russia. This is very important, and I believe it will happen one day. [Russia] is a big country. [Russia] is a nuclear country. It is a country we must deal with." Mr. Trump has repeatedly spoken about the need for a more conciliatory and peaceful approach towards Moscow. Concurrently, in recent months, investigations have been ongoing regarding possible connections between his current and former aides and Russian officials. The FBI is conducting investigations related to this matter, with former FBI Director Robert Mueller overseeing these investigations as a special counsel. Additionally, at least three different committees in the U.S. Congress are examining allegations in this regard. Last January, senior officials from U.S. intelligence agencies stated in a Senate meeting that Russia undoubtedly interfered in the presidential election last year. Senior Russian officials, including Vladimir Putin, have denied these allegations.