ABAWABA - Putin unexpectedly declared his "support" for Democratic presidential contender Kamala Harris on Thursday, weeks before the November election. Washington has regularly accused Moscow of meddling in the election, which Russia denies.
Putin told an economic event in Vladivostok, "President Biden advised his supporters to back Harris, so we will follow suit." Added, "She has an infectious laugh, which shows she’s doing well."
Putin compared Harris with previous President Donald Trump, who had placed several sanctions on Russia. "Perhaps Kamala Harris will choose not to do the same," he said.
The White House immediately urged Putin to stop intervening in U.S. elections. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stressed, "The American people choose the next president. Please do not remark on or influence our elections, Mr. Putin."
RT executives were sanctioned and sued by the U.S. on Wednesday. Washington cited Moscow's persistent electoral interference as the reason for these actions.
Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesman Maria Zakharova called the U.S. measures a "media campaign" to influence the election's last phase. "The response is being prepared and will be firm," said.
United States authorities have not officially declared whether Russian activities favor Republicans or Democrats, but Attorney General Merrick Garland claimed that intelligence assessments show Russia's inclinations have not altered from prior elections. Many believe this means Moscow still backs Republican frontrunner Trump.
