The last Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev is to celebrate his 90th birthday on zoom.
Mikhail Gorbachev, who championed arms control and democracy-oriented reforms as Soviet leader in the 1980s, is widely credited with helping end the Cold War.
His critics in Russia blame him for what they regard as the unnecessary and painful breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Mr Putin, who has himself lamented the Soviet breakup, sent Mr Gorbachev a congratulatory telegram, which was published on the Kremlin website.
“You are rightfully considered to be part of the constellation of bright and outstanding people and preeminent statesmen of our time who have had a major effect on national and global history.
It is indeed tremendous that your huge professional and life experience, your energy and creative potential provide the basis for taking an active part in the much needed public awareness efforts and for contributing to the implementation of international humanitarian projects,” said Mr Putin.
Gorbachev’s legacy has been partially unpicked in recent years as Moscow and Washington’s ties retreated to post-Cold War lows, a process that sped the demise of a treaty that banned the two nations from deploying land-based ballistic missiles with certain ranges.
Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and rows over sanctions, alleged political meddling, and geopolitics have further soured U.S.-Russia ties.
Gorbachev has warned against a return to the Cold War and urged Moscow and Washington to keep talking to each other, regardless of their differences.