MOSCOW, Jul 4 : Russian President Vladimir Putin said that both Russia and the US bear a "special responsibility" for maintaining global security, as he congratulated US President Donald Trump on the 250th anniversary of American independence.
In a message published by the Kremlin on Saturday, Putin extended his wishes to Trump and his family, expressing hopes for their "health, well-being and success," while wishing the American people "happiness and prosperity."
The Russian leader described the signing of the US Declaration of Independence as "an important milestone in world history" and highlighted the historical ties between the two countries.
Putin noted that Russia and the United States had fought alongside one another during the two World Wars and had contributed to shaping the post-war international order.
"We were allies in two world wars, together freed humanity from the horrors of Nazism, and later played an important role in laying the foundations of the modern world order," Putin said in the message.
He added that the two nations, as the world's largest nuclear powers, carry a particular responsibility for international stability.
"Today, Russia and the United States, as the world's two largest nuclear powers, bear a special responsibility for ensuring global security and stability," the statement said.
Putin also pointed to Russia's historical support for the American colonies during their struggle for independence from Britain in the 18th century.
During the American Revolutionary War, Empress Catherine the Great declined British requests to send Russian troops to assist in suppressing the rebellion. Russia later established the League of Armed Neutrality, a coalition that challenged Britain's naval blockade and was widely viewed as favourable to the American cause.
Both Moscow and Washington have greatly renewed communication since Trump's return to the White House. The two leaders met in person last August and have held multiple phone conversations covering issues including the Ukraine war, conflicts in West Asia and broader bilateral relations.
(UNI)
