Putin says he can't tell and it depends on how long it takes Trump to form his team. Notes that Trump has called for better relations and says that relations couldn't be any worse than they are now.
Next question is from an American reporter: when do you plan to meet with Trump and what will you discuss?
Last two questions!
Putin criticizing the Obama administration and the Democratic Party for trying to "blame" others for their electoral defeats, while praising U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
Putin says the bad relations didn't just happen and that "we aren't to blame," "we didn't begin the military action in South Ossetia." Says he thinks there should be visa-free travel between the two countries. Said Moscow sees positive signs from some Georgian officials. Calls for closer cooperation in combating terrorism.
Next question is from a reporter from Georgia. Asks whether there are perspectives for dialogue between Georgia and Russia or whether the current poor relations will continue.
Putin says what happened in Irkutsk was a horrible tragedy for which there are "no words." Blames local controllers for not preventing the tragedy. Says he agrees with stricter controls on industrial spirits and regrets this wasn't done sooner. Says the fact that such restrictions might harm certain industries is not a reason not to implement them. Regarding the "alcoholization of the population," Putin says it is a problem, although one shared by other northern European companies. Says alcohol shouldn't be sold near schools -- such laws exist and need to be enforced. Calls for educational work, including in the mass media. Says it is an important question for Russia that affects the demographic situation.