Trump and Putin discuss future ties in phone call
By
BRENT GRIFFITHS
11/14/16 03:55 PM EST
President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke via phone on Monday, their first conversation since the New York billionaire was elected on Nov. 8.
According to a readout of the call from Trump's transition team, the two discussed a variety of issues, including: current roadblocks to U.S.-Russian relations, economic issues and the history of ties between the two countries.
Trump noted that he is looking forward to "a strong and enduring relationship with Russia and the people of Russia," the readout said.
The two men's phone call comes after a bitterly fought U.S. election, in which the U.S. government accused Russia of meddling in the American electoral system through hacks of Democratic institutions and officials, and Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton all but accused Trump of being a Kremlin stooge.
Trump promised to reach out to Russia repeatedly during the campaign despite harsh criticism from national security experts, Democrats and many Republicans.
Trump and Putin discuss future ties in phone call