Former US President Donald Trump expressed uncertainty on Thursday after Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly backed Vice President Kamala Harris for the upcoming presidential election.
“Putin endorsed Kamala today, and I didn’t know how to respond. Should I call him and say, ‘Thank you’? I’m not sure if I should feel insulted or if he did me a favor,” Trump said during an event at the New York Economic Club.
Trump’s remarks came after Putin, speaking at a Russian economic forum, stated that he supported Harris, who replaced President Joe Biden on the Democratic ticket after Biden exited the race.
Putin commented, “Our favorite was the incumbent President Biden. He withdrew, but he recommended all his supporters back Ms. Harris, so we’ll do the same.” He also made a lighthearted remark about Harris’s infectious laughter, implying she wouldn’t impose more sanctions on Russia.
Despite Putin’s statement that the choice ultimately lies with the American people, his comments prompted a swift response from Washington.
John Kirby, spokesperson for the US National Security Council, said, “Putin should stop talking about our elections altogether and refrain from supporting any candidate. He should also cease interfering.” Kirby’s comments came just a day after the US announced charges related to alleged Russian efforts to influence the November 5 elections.
Trump, who has maintained friendlier ties with Putin compared to Biden or Harris, secured the Republican Party’s nomination for the presidency, while Biden withdrew from the race in July and endorsed Harris.
