'It's a universally accepted practice when diplomatic envoys and even government officials meet candidates and their teams to discuss some issues, prospects for development, trying to get an idea what they will do if they come to power and how to respond to that,' Putin said.
'What is extraordinary about it and why should it trigger some sort of spy mania?'
Putin also praised Trump's successes, saying that global markets have demonstrated investors' confidence in his economic course.
'We can objectively see quite serious achievements even during his short time in office,' Putin said.
The Russian leader said he and Trump had spoken on a first-name basis on the sidelines of two international summits this year, and he voiced hope that Trump eventually would be able to fulfill his campaign promises to improve ties with Russia.
'I hope that he would gradually have opportunities to establish contacts with Russia,' he added.
Putin emphasized the countries need to cooperate on tackling global challenges and that Russia is ready for 'constructive' cooperation on tackling the North Korean standoff.
Putin has warned the U.S. not to use force against North Korea, adding that the consequences will be 'catastrophic.'
He emphasized that Russia opposes Pyongyang's nuclear ambitions, but added the U.S. had 'provoked' the North into developing its nuclear and missile programs.
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