Russian President Vladimir Putin stirred the pot of US politics by declaring his support for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, stoking controversy ahead of the 2024 election.
Putin, speaking at an economic forum in Vladivostok, said he preferred Harris over former President Donald Trump, citing her “infectious” laugh and suggesting her victory could benefit Russia.
“Our ‘favourite,’ if you can call it that, was the current president, Mr [Joe] Biden. But he was removed from the race, and he recommended all his supporters to support Ms Harris. Well, we will do so – we will support her,” Putin said, smirking.
The 71-year-old Kremlin leader also has a thing for Harris’s distinctive laugh. “She laughs so expressively and infectiously that it means that everything is fine with her,” he said, adding that if she were doing well, “perhaps she will refrain” from imposing more sanctions on Russia.
By contrast, Putin was critical of Trump, stating that during his presidency, an unprecedented number of sanctions were slapped on Russia.
“Trump has imposed so many restrictions and sanctions against Russia like no other president has ever introduced before him,” he said.
“Ultimately, the choice is up to the American people, and we will respect that choice,” Putin added.
The Russian premier’s ironic remarks come on the heels of the Biden administration announcing new sanctions targeting a Russian disinformation campaign aimed at influencing the 2024 US election in Trump’s favour.
US officials reacted sharply to Putin’s latest comments. John Kirby, spokesman for the US National Security Council, stated, “Mr Putin ought to stop talking about our elections, period. He shouldn’t be favoring anybody one way or another.”
This is not the first time Putin has weighed on US presidential candidates. During Trump’s 2016 campaign, Putin praised him as “outstanding” and “talented.” US intelligence has stated that Putin authorised efforts to support Trump’s campaign through hacking and covert social media operations.
Although Putin has previously suggested Biden’s reelection would be preferable due to his “experience” and “predictability,” many US officials believe Moscow still holds a preference for Trump, who has voiced admiration for Putin and suggested cutting aid to Ukraine.
The Kremlin, as in past elections, continues to deny any involvement in US polls.
