US President Donald Trump has dismissed speculation that Washington could attempt to abduct Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying such an action would be unnecessary and emphasizing that he has historically maintained a “great relationship” with his Russian counterpart.

Trump’s comments came amid heightened international tensions following a recent US military operation in Venezuela, where American commandos captured President Nicolás Maduro during a rapid raid on his compound in Caracas. The unprecedented operation has drawn sharp reactions from governments around the world, including Moscow, and has sparked debate over whether the United States could consider similar actions against other leaders it regards as adversaries.

The issue was raised publicly on January 9 during Trump’s meeting with oil industry executives at the White House. As reporters gathered for a question-and-answer session, Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy referred to remarks made by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in the aftermath of the Maduro operation.

“Sounds like he wants you to go and capture Vladimir Putin,” Doocy said, referencing Zelensky’s comments, before directly asking Trump whether he would ever order a mission to seize the Russian president.

Trump was quick to reject the idea. “Well, I don’t think it’s going to be necessary,” he replied. “I’ve always had a great relationship with him.” The president also used the opportunity to express frustration over the lack of progress in resolving the war between Russia and Ukraine, saying he was “very disappointed” that his attempts to mediate a ceasefire over the past year had failed........

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