Putin Announces His Pick for 2024 US Election Candidate

Russian President Vladimir Putin has made headlines by expressing his support for Kamala Harris in the upcoming US presidential election.

This announcement came just a day after the United States accused Russia of attempting to interfere in the 2024 election and imposed sanctions on Russian state-funded media outlets.

During a session at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin, with a wry smile, stated, "Firstly, (US President Joe) Biden recommended all his supporters support Ms. Harris. Here, we are going to do that too, we're going to support her." He added, "She laughs so contagiously that it shows that everything is fine with her."

Putin's comments were seen as ironic and possibly aimed at stirring the pot of US domestic politics. Historically, Putin has often commented on American political affairs with a hint of sarcasm. For instance, he previously described the US political system as "rotten" and criticized Washington's stance on democracy.

The timing of Putin's endorsement raised eyebrows, especially given the recent actions by the US Justice Department. On September 4, 2024, two employees of the Russian state broadcaster RT were charged with money laundering in connection with an alleged scheme to influence the November election through pro-Russian propaganda.

Despite his vocal support for Harris, US intelligence agencies believe that Moscow actually prefers Donald Trump, who is perceived as less committed to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Putin himself acknowledged that Trump had imposed more sanctions on Russia than any other US president before him.

In a teasing tone, Putin remarked, "Ultimately, the choice is up to the American people, and we will respect that choice." This statement was met with applause from the audience, further highlighting the performative nature of his endorsement.

Analysts suggest that Putin's endorsement of Harris could be a strategic move akin to a "House of Cards" scenario, where the endorsement might be more harmful than beneficial to its recipient.

Exiled Russian political journalist Mikhail Zygar noted that Putin is a fan of the darkly cynical television series about Washington politics, which he reportedly recommended to his ministers as a textbook on American politics.