Russia curbs expectations of Trump presidency

Significance

Peskov's comment reflects caution over Trump's domestic difficulties and evolving position on Russia. Russian officials and foreign policy experts harboured limited expectations of a swift reconciliation with Washington, and recent events only strengthen wait-and-see attitudes. Moscow wants an early meeting between Trump and President Vladimir Putin and increased working-level engagement, especially if the new US administration contains more pragmatists than hawks.

Impacts

• Moscow expects hawks in Congress and cabinet to curb Trump's more pragmatic instincts.
• Trump's pressure on NATO states to increase defence spending will be a setback for Russia.
• While it would welcome sanctions relief, Moscow is making a point of not requesting it.