Russian rouble near 80 vs US dollar, strongest since June 2024

MOSCOW, April 21 (Reuters) - The Russian rouble traded close to 80 to the U.S. dollar, reaching its strongest level since June 2024, data showed on Monday, after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hope that Russia and Ukraine would reach a deal to end the war this week.

At 0910 GMT the rouble was up 1.2% at 81.00 to the U.S. currency, according to LSEG data, based on over-the-counter exchange rate quotes. It strengthened to 80.35 during the trading session, the strongest level since June 27, 2024.

The rouble has risen by over 40% against the dollar since the beginning of the year, primarily due to expectations of easing tensions between Russia and the United States, as well as hopes for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine.

"The peaceful agenda remains relevant at the start of the new week," said Denis Popov from PSN bank.

Against the Chinese yuan, which is used by Russia's central bank for its foreign exchange interventions and is currently the most-traded foreign currency in Russia, the rouble was down 0.5% to 11.09 on the Moscow Stock Exchange.