Trump Sees Putin as a "Competitor in the Region" but Values Diplomatic Relations, Says White House

On February 12, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared insights into US President Donald Trump's stance on Russia and Vladimir Putin, following up on the President's recent call with him. 

When asked whether President Trump views Russia and Putin as an ally, partner, competitor, or adversary, Leavitt emphasized that the US President sees Putin and Russia as a “great competitor in the region,” though at times, he’s viewed as an “adversary.”

Levitt further highlighted President Trump's approach to international relations, noting that while he views Putin as a competitor, he also values maintaining strong diplomatic relationships with leaders worldwide. 

“The President enjoys having good diplomatic relationships with leaders around the world, finding common ground, also calling them out when they are wrong, and leading from a position of peace through strength,” she explained.

According to Levitt, this approach is one of President Trump's greatest strengths, and is a strategy that has been consistently demonstrated in his dealings with global leaders.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with US President Donald Trump in a phone call on the evening of February 12.