The United States (U.S.) Presidential Elections, expected to be held on November 5, 2024, are a process that attracts great attention worldwide and has significant impacts on global policies. The results of these elections will not only affect domestic policies but also have substantial implications for international relations. Russia, one of the key players in a complicated world order and often in opposition to the U.S. due to conflicting views, especially during the Cold War, is closely monitoring these elections like many other states.
Russian President Vladimir Putin made an ironic statement of support, implying that he hopes Kamala Harris will win the next presidential election after President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race. This remark once again highlights Russia’s interest in the election process and its potential influence on it. Putin made this comment a day after the U.S. Department of Justice accused two Russian media executives of attempting to interfere in U.S. elections through pro-Russian propaganda, emphasizing the irony of the situation. However, he also stressed in his speech that they respect the choice of the American people and that this election is a decision for them.
Putin, who previously stated that he preferred Biden over Trump, had emphasized that Biden was an “old-school” and “more predictable” politician. However, American intelligence sources indicate that Moscow actually wants Trump to win, as Trump is seen as less committed to supporting Ukraine.[i]
Putin expressed that he respects the American people’s election choice regardless of the outcome, subtly showing comfort with either side. However, recalling that Biden’s supporters suggested voting for Kamala Harris, he humorously commented, “We will do the same; we will support her.” Putin’s remarks were met with smiles and applause. Expanding on his comments about Harris, Putin said, “She smiles so sincerely and contagiously that it shows everything is going well,” hinting that Harris might avoid imposing more sanctions on Russia.[ii] On the other hand, Putin pointed out that more sanctions were imposed on Russia during Trump’s presidency, implying that the situation could be different with Harris.
According to frequently circulated claims, U.S. intelligence agencies allege that Russia conducted a disinformation campaign in the 2016 elections to support Trump’s campaign and discredit Hillary Clinton. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied these claims. However, Yevgeny Prigozhin, founder of the Wagner mercenary group, hinted in 2022 that they interfered in the U.S. elections.
The U.S. Department of Justice has raised new allegations that Russia attempted to interfere in U.S. elections, including money laundering charges against two employees of the Russian state channel RT. In response to these accusations, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Russia would target American media, leading to reciprocal statements. These developments occur at a time when the allegations of Russian interference in U.S. elections further complicate the already strained relations between the two countries.
The U.S. Department of Justice has raised new allegations that Russia attempted to interfere in U.S. elections, including money laundering charges against two employees of the Russian state channel RT. In response to these accusations, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Russia would target American media, leading to reciprocal statements. These developments occur at a time when the allegations of Russian interference in U.S. elections further complicate the already strained relations between the two countries.[iii]
The U.S. elections significantly affect not only domestic policies but also global dynamics. Especially the statements and allegations made by Russia regarding the election process make this impact even more pronounced. Putin’s ironic support for Kamala Harris and the U.S. Department of Justice’s accusations of Russian interference in the elections reveal the complexity of the political dynamics between the two countries.
Putin’s comments on the U.S. elections carry an element of diplomatic irony and humor, reflecting both the diplomatic and strategic aspects of Russia’s approach to U.S. elections. This situation also shows how the internal politics of the U.S. are closely monitored by external actors and how these actors’ perceptions of the U.S. elections resonate in international politics.
Looking at other examples from history, Putin’s influence on U.S. elections is evident. For example, while he supported George W. Bush in 2004, he praised Donald Trump in the 2016 elections, showing Russia’s tendency to be involved in election processes.[iv] The U.S. has faced Russia with various accusations regarding these interventions, escalating tensions between the two countries. Additionally, such disputes between the U.S. and Russia have the potential to create significant changes in global power balances. Any allegation of Russia’s interference in U.S. elections could lead to a deepening atmosphere of distrust in the relations between the two countries.
In conclusion, while U.S. elections may seem like a process concerning only American citizens, they also have a significant impact on global politics. Russia’s stance on these elections and the U.S.’s response to this stance is increasing tensions between the two countries. However, both sides agree on the importance of respecting the people’s choice.
[i] Vladimir Soldatkin, “Teasing Putin says Russia backs Kamala Harris, cites her ‘infectious’ laugh”, Reuters, https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-says-moscow-supported-its-own-citizens-major-east-west-prisoner-swap-2024-09-05/, (Date of Access: 05.09.2024).
[ii] Ibid.
[iii] Ulyana Krychkovska, Stanıslav Pohorılov, “Putin ought to stop talking about elections – White House”, Ukrainska Pravda, https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2024/09/6/7473733/, (Date of Access: 06.09.2024).
[iv] “Russia backs Kamala Harris’: Putin’s history of US election ‘endorsements”, Aljazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/9/6/russia-backs-kamala-harris-putins-history-of-us-election-endorsements, (Date of Access: 06.09.2024).
