In a surprising development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his support for US Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming US presidential election, citing her ‘contagious laughter’ as a positive trait. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on September 5, Putin stated, ‘We will support the one who has been recommended by President Biden, who has withdrawn from the race, but has asked all his supporters to back Harris’.Putin’s comments have sparked controversy and raised questions about potential Russian interference in the US election process. The White House has responded firmly, with National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stating, ‘The only people who should get to determine who the next president of United States is are the American people, and we would greatly appreciate it if Mr. Putin would, a) stop talking about our election, and b) stop interfering in it’.Despite Putin’s apparent endorsement of Harris, US intelligence agencies believe that Russia actually prefers former President Donald Trump to win the election, as he is perceived to be less committed to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Putin criticized Trump’s previous sanctions policy, noting that ‘Trump has imposed more restrictions and sanctions on Russia than any other president’.The situation is further complicated by recent US actions against Russian media. The US Department of Justice has charged two employees of Russian news network RT with money laundering and imposed sanctions on its top editors for allegedly attempting to influence the upcoming election. Russian lawmakers have denounced these actions as a ‘witch-hunt, pressure on freedom of speech and vulgar censorship’.As the US presidential election approaches, Putin’s comments and the subsequent reactions highlight the ongoing tensions between the US and Russia, as well as the complex interplay of international relations and domestic politics. The true impact of these developments on the election outcome remains to be seen.
Key points
- Putin expressed support for Kamala Harris in the US presidential election, citing her ‘contagious laughter’.
- The White House has asked Putin to stop interfering in the US election process.
- US intelligence agencies believe Russia actually prefers Trump to win due to his stance on Ukraine.
- The US has taken action against Russian media for alleged election interference.
Contradictions👾Putin claims to support Harris, but US intelligence believes Russia actually prefers Trump.
👾Putin criticizes Trump’s sanctions while expressing hope that Harris might not impose similar measures.
