US Election 2024: Donald Trump 'very offended' by Vladimir Putin’s endorsement of Kamala Harris

Former President Donald Trump has voiced his frustration over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. Putin made the remarks in a seemingly sarcastic tone, praising Harris for her "infectious laugh," which sparked speculation about his sincerity. Trump, initially unsure how to interpret the endorsement, later expressed that he was “offended” by Putin's comments.

During a rally in Wisconsin on Saturday, Trump stated that he was "very offended" by Putin's remarks. He reflected on his past relationship with Putin, saying, “I knew Putin well, and now he endorses Kamala.” Trump questioned whether the endorsement was meant as a joke or a strategic move, asking, “Should I be upset? Was it done with a smile? Who knows?”

Trump emphasized that no US president had been tougher on Russia than him. He wondered if he should have responded positively, saying, “I didn’t know, was I supposed to call him up and say thank you very much, I appreciate it? I don’t know – I don’t know exactly what to say about that. I don’t know if I’m insulted or he did me a favour?” he added.


Putin's comments were made on Thursday at the Eastern Economic Forum in Russia. He sarcastically urged his supporters to back Kamala Harris, mentioning her "contagious" laugh as a sign that everything was going well for her. Trump's initial uncertainty about how to feel about the endorsement turned into outright frustration in the days following Putin's statement.

Trump also downplayed concerns from the Justice Department about Russia’s potential interference in the upcoming US election, mocking the renewed focus on the issue by saying, “It’s Russia, Russia, Russia all over again.” He further promised that if re-elected, he would resolve the war between Russia and Ukraine quickly, though he did not provide specific details on how he would achieve this.

In response to Putin's comments, National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby said, “Mr. Putin should stop discussing our elections and refrain from favoritism. Only Americans should decide their next president. We urge Mr. Putin to cease both his commentary and interference in our election process.”