Vladimir Putin Says Criminal Cases Against Donald Trump Are ‘Political Persecution,’ Calls U.S. System ‘Rotten’

At the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, President Vladimir Putin called the multiple criminal cases against Donald Trump “political persecution.” Putin also praised entrepreneur Elon Musk.

Putin’s remarks may have been an effort to rally American conservatives, many of whom have been protesting the federal cases against Trump since he was still in office.

The Russian president stated that the 91 felony counts against Trump represent the “persecution of one’s political rival for political motives.”

“Given today’s conditions, what is happening is good for us, in my opinion, because it shows the rottenness of the American political system, which cannot pretend to teach democracy to others,” Putin continued.

Putin did share his view that relations between America and Russia will not improve, regardless of who wins the 2024 presidential election.

“Though they accused him of special ties to Russia, it was complete nonsense, total bulls—t, and he more than anything imposed sanctions on Russia,” Putin said. “So what to expect in the future… is difficult to say. But it’s unlikely anything will change definitively because the current government has configured American society in such an anti-Russian manner and spirit.”

Republican presidential candidate and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said that Putin’s comments insinuated Russia’s support for Trump.

“It’s good to see Vladimir Putin has made his endorsement official — and no surprise, he’s endorsed another autocrat,” Christie told the New York Times.

During a discussion about X, formerly Twitter, Putin also called Musk a “talented businessman.”

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“When it comes to private business, Elon Musk, he is, without a doubt, an outstanding person, one has to admit,” Putin explained. “But I think everyone would admit that all around the world. He is an active, talented businessman. A lot works out for him, including with the support of the American government.”