White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby has firmly stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin should refrain from commenting on the US presidential race ahead of the November 5 vote. This statement comes shortly after Putin mentioned that Moscow would be rooting for the Democratic nominee, Kamala Harris.
Since the 2016 presidential election, US authorities have repeatedly accused Russia of attempting to sway public opinion and meddle in the electoral process within the country. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Kirby emphasized that Putin should stop discussing the elections and favoring any candidates. He stressed that only the American people would determine the outcome of the presidential election.
During an appearance at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok earlier that day, Putin acknowledged his previous support for US President Joe Biden, but stated that he has since been “removed” from the race. The Russian president added that, since the incumbent US president had encouraged his supporters to back Kamala Harris as the new Democratic hopeful, the Kremlin was inclined to do the same.
Putin remarked on how Harris “laughs so infectiously,” suggesting that “everything is going well for her.” He also expressed hope that her positive demeanor could mean she would impose fewer sanctions on Russia than former US President Donald Trump, who introduced more restrictions on Moscow than any other president in American history.
When asked whether he would call to congratulate the eventual winner in November, the Russian head of state replied by saying it had been a long time since he had any direct contact with Western European or US leaders. In the end, the choice is up to the American people and we will treat their eventual decision with respect,” Putin concluded.
In response to these remarks, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump commented on Thursday: “He 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.