Public statements by Donald Trump or credible reports by major news outlets

Trump Responds to Report of Calls with Putin, Says Contact Would Be 'Smart Thing'

Oct 15, 2024, 05:51 PM

Former President Donald Trump declined to confirm whether he has spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin since leaving office, stating that if he had, it would be a "smart thing." In an interview with Bloomberg's John Micklethwait on October 15, Trump responded to questions about possible communications with Putin amid reports by journalist Bob Woodward that he had spoken with the Russian leader seven times since leaving office. Trump said, "I don't comment on that. But if I did, it's a smart thing." He further suggested that maintaining relationships with foreign leaders is beneficial, adding, "If I'm friendly with people, if I can have a relationship with people, that's a good thing, not a bad thing, in terms of a country."