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Trump praises 'very smart' Putin after decision not to expel US diplomats

Donald Trump has appeared to praise President Vladimir Putin for not expelling US diplomats from Russia.

Hours after Mr Putin said he would not retaliate to Barack Obama's decision to throw 35 Russian officials out of the US over allegations of hacking, Mr Trump tweeted: "Great move on delay (by V. Putin) - I always knew he was very smart!"

Putin has said he hopes when President-elect Trump takes office, Moscow and Washington will be able to take "real steps" to improve relations between the two countries.

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'This is just typical Putin having a good time'

President Vladimir Putin was expected to expel dozens of diplomats today in response to President Barack Obama throwing 35 Russian officials out of the US over allegations of hacking.

But despite calls for action from his own foreign ministry, he said he would not stoop to the level of the Americans and that he would work to restore relations once Donald Trump is in the White House.

US foreign policy analyst James Jeffrey told ITV News: "This is just typical Putin having a good time."

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Trump praises 'very smart' Putin after decision not to expel US diplomats

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