Putin Turned 74: Who Congratulated the Russian Dictator?
On Wednesday, October 7, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin celebrates his 74th birthday. He has already received congratulations from a number of foreign leaders, including Belarus’s self-proclaimed president, Alexander Lukashenko; North Korean leader Kim Jong Un; and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Among the foreign leaders who have already sent birthday wishes to Vladimir Putin are:
- the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko;
- North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un;
- Xi Jinping, leader of the People’s Republic of China.
On October 7, Putin is scheduled to hold a series of phone calls with foreign leaders who are expected to congratulate him on his birthday.
Xi Jinping sent a written message to Vladimir Putin even before his birthday. The content of the Chinese president’s message has not yet been made public.
Alexander Lukashenko was generous with compliments in his message. He described Vladimir Putin’s work as an example of “responsible and selfless service to the motherland.”
The message from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was even warmer. He addressed the Russian dictator as his “dearest friend” and stated that during Putin’s two decades in power, Russia had allegedly transformed into a “powerful and prosperous country.”
Kim Jong-un also emphasized the importance of a “comprehensive strategic partnership” with Russia and promised to continue expanding cooperation between the two countries.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump said he plans to call Vladimir Putin in the near future.
According to the American leader, the conversation will take place “very soon,” though Trump did not disclose exactly which issues he plans to discuss with the Russian dictator.
According to The Washington Post, Vladimir Putin is counting on a weakening of European support for Ukraine. The Kremlin expects that European countries’ resolve may wane in the winter and spring.
According to the Financial Times, the Russian leadership’s nuclear rhetoric has ceased to be as effective in influencing Moscow’s opponents. Russia is seeking other means of intimidation to restore the impact of its threats.
