Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, expressed uncertainty about whether he should feel offended or grateful by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s preference for his Democratic rival, Vice President Kamala Harris.
During an event at the Economic Club of New York on Thursday, Trump stated that he was unsure of his reaction to Putin’s endorsement of Harris, who the Russian leader had praised for her “infectious laugh.” Putin had made the statement earlier in the day at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, indicating his preference for Harris over Trump. He acknowledged President Biden’s endorsement of Harris as his successor and expressed respect for Biden’s choice.
“He [Putin] endorsed Kamala, and I didn’t know if I was supposed to call him up and say, ‘Thank you very much’ … I don’t know exactly what to say about it. I don’t know if I’m insulted or he did me a favor,” Trump remarked.
John Kirby, spokesperson for the US National Security Council, responded to Putin’s comments by advising the Russian president to refrain from discussing the US presidential election.
Putin’s remarks came in response to a question at the forum regarding his preferred candidate in the US election, given that Joe Biden, who he previously favored, is no longer running. In response, Putin clarified that Russia’s role is not to choose a “favorite” in the election, emphasizing that the decision ultimately lies with American voters.
Speaking about Harris, Putin speculated that her positive disposition might lead to fewer sanctions imposed on Russia compared to Trump’s administration, which, according to Putin, had implemented more restrictions on Moscow than any other presidency in American history.
“In the end, the choice is up to the American people, and we will treat their eventual decision with respect,” Putin stated.