Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed Thursday, Sept. 5, that he is supporting Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming U.S. presidential election. Putin cited her “fascinating” laugh as one reason for his preference.
The Russian leader’s apparent endorsement came just one day after the United States imposed sanctions on Russian state media executives and restricted Kremlin-linked broadcasters, accusing them of attempting to influence the upcoming election.
Earlier this week, U.S. officials warned of efforts by foreign powers to meddle in the upcoming election. Those officials made accusations of Russian interference dating back to the 2016 presidential race.
While former President Donald Trump was in office, U.S. intelligence warned that Russia meddled in the 2016 election, helping to boost Trump’s campaign over Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s.
The Kremlin denied those accusations.
Prior to President Joe Biden dropping out of the race, Putin said he preferred Biden over Trump because he found Biden to be more predictable.
But U.S. intelligence agencies believe Moscow wants Trump to win because Trump has shown himself to be less committed to backing Ukraine in its war against Russia, according to a Reuters report.
The Russian leader’s comments stand in contrast to Trump’s history of praising Putin, highlighting the complex and evolving dynamics between U.S. political figures and the Kremlin.
Putin suggested that Harris’ presidency might lead to fewer sanctions against Russia compared to previous administrations, particularly noting Trump’s Russian sanctions during his first term.
As the election approaches, the impact of Putin’s statements on American voter sentiment remains uncertain.