El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele could embark on a historic visit to Russia in 2025, potentially discussing Bitcoin (BTC) with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This speculation arises from comments made by Alexander Ilyukhin, First Secretary of the Russian Embassy in Nicaragua and head of Russia’s office in El Salvador, as reported by Izvestia.
Plans for Bukele’s Moscow Visit Underway
Russian and Salvadoran officials are reportedly working to organize Bukele’s visit to Moscow. According to Ilyukhin, the initiative reflects a growing rapport between the two nations, though it hinges on global political dynamics.
Impact of US President-elect Donald Trump
Ilyukhin acknowledged that Bukele’s trip might depend on Donald Trump’s Russia policy during his forthcoming presidential term. Despite El Salvador’s economic dependence on the United States, Bukele has expressed interest in Moscow.
The diplomat also emphasized El Salvador’s unique international stance, noting that the country has not imposed sanctions on Russia or condemned its “Special Military Operation” in Ukraine.
Bitcoin’s Role in Strengthening Ties
A significant topic of potential discussion is Bitcoin. El Salvador, the first nation to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, has created a crypto-friendly environment. Reports suggest Salvadoran officials are open to using cryptocurrency for bilateral trade, potentially bypassing reliance on the US dollar.
Russian firms eyeing El Salvador for relocation—particularly those in tourism goods, hunting, and fishing sectors—could leverage the country’s crypto-payment infrastructure to conduct business more efficiently.
Infrastructure and Nuclear Energy Cooperation
El Salvador’s infrastructure ambitions also present opportunities for collaboration. Vice President Felix Ulloa highlighted projects like a 180,000km road and railway network, new airports, and ports, all positioned as foreign investment opportunities.
In addition, talks about nuclear energy are on the table. Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear agency, has discussed constructing a research reactor in El Salvador, indicating deeper cooperation in high-tech fields.
Russia’s Strategic Pivot to LATAM
With growing global sanctions isolating Moscow, Russia appears to be seeking partnerships in Latin America. El Salvador’s pragmatic approach, including interest in BRICS and neutrality toward global power blocs, aligns with Russia’s strategy to strengthen ties in the region.
A Positive Outlook Amid Challenges
Trade relations between the two nations face hurdles, primarily due to El Salvador’s reliance on the USD. However, using cryptocurrency for trade could pave the way for smoother transactions.
Magomed Kodzoev, a senior researcher at the Russian Academy of Sciences, praised Bukele as a pragmatist open to negotiation, making the potential visit even more significant for geopolitical and economic relations.
What This Could Mean for Bitcoin
If discussions progress, Bukele’s visit could reinforce Bitcoin’s role as a global payment alternative, fostering innovation in crypto adoption. This aligns with El Salvador’s vision of positioning itself as a crypto-friendly hub.
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