The West has been sharply divided in its reaction to Vladimir Putin’s decisive win in the Russian presidential election; while some European leaders have sent warm wishes to Putin in the hope of closer ties with Moscow, some others have taken advantage of the moment to say the strained relations would be irreversible under Putin.
Congratulations poured in from around the world after Putin garnered almost 77 percent of the vote, with an estimated turnout of 67 percent. But much of Europe was considering how to react to Putin’s election for a new six-year term.
The first European nation who broke the silence was Germany, whose Foreign Minister did not hesitate to call Russia a “difficult partner” under Putin.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel later congratulated Putin and expressed hope for further constructive cooperation.
“Today, it is vitally important to continue dialogue and maintain relations between our countries and nations. With this in mind, we should take efforts for constructive work on major bilateral and international problems to find proper solutions. I wish you success in your work to resolve the tasks facing you,” she told Putin in her message.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron wished Putin “success for the political, democratic, economic and social modernization” of Russia.
Putin received the warmest message in the European Union from Italy’s right-wing parties. Matteo Salvini, leader of League party, quickly congratulated Putin in a tweet, saying, “Good job, president.”
