On Thursday, the White House directly told Russian President Vladimir Putin to “stop” discussing the upcoming U.S. presidential election, following his remarks supporting Vice President Kamala Harris.
“Putin should cease talking about our elections altogether. He shouldn’t endorse or favor any candidate,” National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters.
“The American people are the only ones who should decide who will be the next U.S. president. We strongly urge Mr. Putin to A: stop commenting on our election, and B: cease any interference in it,” he added.
During an economic forum in Russia, Putin reportedly smiled and said, “I mentioned that our ‘favorite,’ if I may, was the incumbent President Mr. Biden. He has since been removed from the race, but he recommended that his supporters back Ms. Harris. Therefore, we will follow suit and support her.”
Putin’s endorsement of Harris came shortly after the Justice Department announced charges against Russian nationals Kostiantyn Kalashnikov, 31, and Elena Afanasyeva, 27. They face allegations of conspiring to violate the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and commit money laundering. The charges involve accusations that the RT employees directed $10 million to online influencers who produced content favorable to Kremlin narratives.
U.S. intelligence agencies have previously warned about Russia’s attempts to influence recent presidential and congressional elections.
