Abstract. The article observes the current state of the Russian-American relations and assesses the prospects for their normalization stemming from the change of the  US  Administration.  Donald  Trump’s  team  rise  to  power  may  provide certain  chances  for  positive  shifts  towards  Russian-American  common agenda. However, a set of factors, domestic and international, will hinder any quick and fundamental bilateral rapprochement regarding key issues in international politics and global security. The article provides detailed analysis of domestic and international conditions under which Trump’s foreign policy towards Russia will be formed and driven and shows key premises and difficulties for expanding dialogue with Moscow.