Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed optimism about improving relations between Russia and the United States during a visit to a nuclear research center on Friday.

Putin stated there was "light at the end of the tunnel" in Russia-U.S. relations following his recent summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska.

"With the arrival of President Trump, I think that a light at the end of the tunnel has finally loomed. And now we had a very good, meaningful and frank meeting in Alaska," Putin said.

The Russian president described last week's summit as productive and indicated that further progress in bilateral relations would depend on decisions made by the United States.

"The next steps now depend on the leadership of the United States, but I am confident that the leadership qualities of the current president, President Trump, are a good guarantee that relations will be restored," Putin added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Friday that Russia is discussing joint projects with the United States in the Arctic region and in Alaska.

Putin did not provide specific details about the nature of these potential collaborations during his statement.

Both nations have previously expressed views that significant economic opportunities could emerge if they can improve diplomatic relations, which deteriorated to their lowest point since the Cold War following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Source: Investing.com