Putin to Trump: "Overcome with outstanding mental strength... Optimism will help"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Sehee] Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message of consolation to U.S. President Donald Trump, who tested positive for the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), on the 2nd (local time).

According to the Kremlin on the same day, President Putin wrote in the message, "I am confident that your innate vitality, outstanding mental strength, and optimism will help you overcome this dangerous virus."

Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, stated that President Putin "wished President Trump a speedy recovery."

Peskov also conveyed that "President Putin is considering receiving the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Russia."

Earlier, on the 11th of last month, the Russian government officially registered (approved) the 'Sputnik V' vaccine developed by the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology under the Ministry of Health, becoming the world's first to do so.

However, unlike the usual vaccine development process, Sputnik V skipped the Phase 3 clinical trials and received national approval after Phases 1 and 2, raising concerns about its efficacy and safety.

Many high-ranking officials and celebrities, including President Putin's daughter, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, have been vaccinated with this vaccine, but President Putin has not yet been vaccinated.

Peskov stated, "If President Putin receives the vaccine, it will be announced soon."

Earlier, President Trump announced via Twitter, "Tonight @FLOTUS (First Lady Melania Trump's Twitter account) and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will immediately begin quarantine and recovery procedures. We will overcome this 'together.'"

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.