A twist that has added a new layer of intrigue to the 2024 US presidential race, Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown his weight behind Kamala Harris, praising her “infectious” laugh and signalling his preference for the Democratic nominee over Donald Trump.
The unexpected endorsement came during a forum in Vladivostok, where Putin, with his usual smirk, appeared to relish the reaction his comments would spark.
The Kremlin leader, who has often been accused of meddling in US elections, was explicit in his remarks: “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 stated, his smile broadening as he continued.
However, it wasn’t just political strategy that seemed to guide Putin’s comments; there was a hint of admiration too. “She laughs so expressively and infectiously that it means that everything is fine with her,” he added, almost as if talking about a favourite TV character.
This unconventional praise, paired with his suggestion that a Harris presidency could lead to fewer sanctions on Russia, raised eyebrows in both Washington and Moscow.
In contrast, Putin was dismissive of Trump, pointing out that the former president’s tenure saw an unprecedented number of sanctions against Russia.
“Trump has imposed so many restrictions and sanctions against Russia like no other president has ever introduced before him,” he noted.
The Russian president’s remarks come just as the Biden administration announced a fresh wave of sanctions aimed at a Russian disinformation campaign allegedly designed to favour Trump in the 2024 elections. This development has heightened tensions between Washington and Moscow, and Putin’s seemingly tongue-in-cheek endorsement of Harris only added fuel to the fire.
The response from the US was swift and stern. John Kirby, spokesperson for the US National Security Council, declared, “Mr Putin ought to stop talking about our elections, period. He shouldn’t be favouring anybody one way or another.”
Putin has a history of weighing in on US elections, often to great effect.
During Trump’s 2016 campaign, he called the businessman “outstanding” and “talented,” and US intelligence later concluded that Putin authorised operations to support Trump’s bid through cyber warfare and covert social media efforts.
Though Putin has hinted in the past that he might prefer Joe Biden’s “experience” and “predictability” in office, many American officials believe the Kremlin still leans towards Trump, who has expressed admiration for Putin and signalled a willingness to reduce aid to Ukraine.
Nevertheless, the Kremlin maintains its stance of denying any interference in US electoral processes, sticking to its narrative of non-involvement.
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