Russian President Vladimir Putin has made headlines with his recent statement expressing a preference for Joe Biden winning a second term over Donald Trump. In an interview with a correspondent of Russian state television, Putin characterized Biden as more experienced and predictable, stating that while Russia would work with any US leader elected by the American people, Biden would be their preferred choice.
Regarding speculation about Biden’s health, Putin declined to comment, stating that he is not a doctor. This comes amid ongoing concerns and discussions about Biden’s age and memory, which his team has sought to address and dismiss. Putin noted that such discussions often intensify during election campaigns, as seen in the US.
Putin recalled his meeting with Biden in Switzerland in June 2021, where rumors about Biden’s health were circulating. However, Putin stated that he saw no signs of incapacity in the American president and dismissed the concerns as unfounded.
Regarding Biden’s administration policy, Putin criticized it, particularly concerning Russia-West relations, which he views as flawed even if he gave preference to Biden over Trump. Tensions escalated significantly after Russia’s incursion into Ukraine in February 2022, with Putin justifying the move as necessary to protect Russian speakers and prevent perceived threats to Russia’s security posed by Ukraine’s NATO aspirations.
Responding to Trump’s recent statement about allowing Russia leeway with NATO member nations, Putin stated that it is up to the US to determine its role in the alliance. Trump’s remarks, which contrasted sharply with Biden’s commitment to defend every inch of NATO territory, drew reactions from European allies, who pledged to bolster their security and defense capabilities.
Putin described NATO as a tool of US foreign policy and suggested that if the US no longer sees a need for it, it should decide accordingly. He noted Trump’s previous efforts to pressure NATO allies to increase defense spending, reflecting differing views on the alliance’s purpose and responsibilities.
Reflecting on his recent interview with Tucker Carlson, Putin expressed surprise at Carlson’s approach, expecting him to be more aggressive. Putin used the interview to push his narrative on the conflict in Ukraine and urge Washington to recognize Moscow’s interests. However, Carlson did not address allegations of war crimes or Putin’s crackdown on dissent, leading Putin to describe him as a “dangerous man.”
Overall, Putin’s remarks offer insight into Russia’s perspective on US leadership, international relations, and ongoing conflicts, while also highlighting the complexities and nuances of geopolitical dynamics.
