New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia supports U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming November presidential election, rather than former President Donald Trump.During his speech at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on Thursday, Putin revealed that Russias previous favorite was President Joe Biden before his withdrawal from the race in July. Following Bidens endorsement of Harris, Putin said that Russia would now support her candidacy.What is the context of Putins support for KamalaBiden, 81, stepped down from his re-election campaign in July after facing mounting pressure from within the Democratic Party. His decision came after a widely criticized CNN debate in June with Republican candidate Donald Trump, which raised concerns about his cognitive health and ability to serve another term. Biden, upon dropping out, endorsed Harris, 59, to carry the partys mantle.What did Putin sayI mentioned that our favorite was the current President, Mr. Biden. However, after he withdrew from the race, he asked his supporters to back Ms. Harris, and so we will do the same, Putin said at the forum.He added, Ultimately, it is up to the American people to decide, and we respect their choice. Our preferences are irrelevant—this is their decision.Putin also took the opportunity to comment humorously on Harris, noting, She laughs so expressively and infectiously, it seems she is doing quite well.He further hinted at geopolitical considerations, saying, Trump imposed more restrictions and sanctions on Russia than any president before him. Perhaps Ms. Harris, if she succeeds, will refrain from such measures.NEW:🇷🇺 Putin says that Russia is supporting Khamala Harris in the US electionsPutin: Biden was our favorite, but he was removed from the race, but he recommended all his supporters to support Harris, which means we will support her too , she laughs so infectiously that it… pic.twitter.com/WN8U8eVoi1— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) September 5, 2024Too early to assess Harris potentialThe Kremlin has been cautious in reacting to Harris candidacy. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted in July, It is too early to assess Ms. Harris potential impact on our bilateral relations as her influence has not yet been felt.Peskov added that while Harris rhetoric had been notably unfriendly towards Russia, it is still unclear how her actions might affect future relations between the two countries.Despite these remarks, Putin has historically praised Trump, calling Biden more experienced and predictable in a February interview with Russian state TV. At that time, U.S. national security spokesperson John Kirby urged Putin to stay out of our elections.LIVE NOW: Putin takes part in Eastern Economic Forum plenary session#EEF2024 https://t.co/4oWwPDnGBl— RT (@RT_com) September 5, 2024Trolling Kamala HarrisRussian state news agency Sputnik characterized Putins comments as playful, suggesting he was trolling the Democratic Party. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sputnik said, Putin keeps trolling US Democratic Party, endorses Kamala Harris for POTUS.The U.S. presidential election is set for Tuesday, November 5, 2024, with Kamala Harris emerging as a key figure in the race.
