Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund and a close associate of President Vladimir Putin, has praised U.S. President Donald Trump’s leadership following his inauguration, stating that his swift executive orders show how decisive leadership can stimulate economic growth and foster global dialogue. Dmitriev’s remarks were reported by Digi24.
In his first hours in office, Trump issued several executive orders aimed at boosting oil and gas production, rolling back environmental regulations, and curbing immigration, effectively reversing much of former President Joe Biden’s climate policies.
Russia's Cautious Response to Trump’s Return
Russian officials have reacted cautiously to Trump’s return to the White House, considering his past stance on Russia. Trump has expressed interest in discussing the Ukraine conflict directly with Putin, a move that has been met with a mix of optimism and skepticism in Moscow.
Dmitriev, a former Goldman Sachs banker educated in the U.S., played a role in early interactions between Moscow and Trump’s team after his 2016 election. He currently faces U.S. sanctions, which Russian officials dismiss as unfounded.
Putin congratulated Trump on his inauguration and welcomed his willingness to reestablish direct communication between Washington and Moscow. The two leaders are expected to explore avenues for investment and cooperation, although no official plans have been confirmed.
Dmitriev's Role in U.S.-Russia Relations
Dmitriev met with Putin a week before Trump's inauguration to discuss the fund's investments, valued at over $22 billion. While there is speculation about his involvement in future U.S.-Russia negotiations, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) has not confirmed any official role for him.
During his inaugural address, Trump declared that he had been "saved by God" from an assassination attempt and vowed to make the United States "greater than ever before."
