In a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, following the two-day Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed grave concerns for the safety of US President-elect Donald Trump. Addressing reporters, Putin claimed that Trump faces a continuing risk to his life, citing multiple assassination attempts and a politically charged atmosphere in the United States.
Putin Decries “Uncivilized” Campaign Tactics
The Russian leader was critical of the methods employed during the US election, calling them “absolutely uncivilized.” Highlighting alleged assassination attempts and threats targeting Trump, Putin remarked, “In my opinion, he is not safe now. Various incidents have happened in US history.”
Trump, praised by Putin as an experienced and intelligent politician, was urged to exercise caution. “I hope the president-elect understands the seriousness of the threats he faces,” Putin said. He condemned the targeting of Trump’s family and children, calling such behavior “revolting” and indicative of a declining political system. “Even criminal groups would not stoop to such tactics,” he added.
Putin suggested that political forces opposed to Trump might be creating obstacles for the Republican’s relations with Russia but reaffirmed Moscow’s willingness to engage with the incoming administration.
A String of Assassination Attempts
The threats to Trump’s life are not theoretical. During a July rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a bullet grazed Trump’s ear, resulting in the death of an audience member, firefighter Corey Comperatore. Secret Service agents neutralized the attacker, identified as Thomas Crooks, a 20-year-old from Pittsburgh.
In September, another would-be assassin was apprehended near Trump’s golf resort in Florida. Ryan Routh had reportedly set up an ambush on the premises. Additionally, authorities arrested an Arizona man for posting near-daily Facebook videos threatening Trump and his family.
Trump Cabinet Members and Appointees Targeted
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed that members of Trump’s transition team and cabinet nominees have also been targeted. FBI officials stated they were investigating a series of bomb threats and “swatting” incidents—false emergency reports designed to provoke an aggressive law enforcement response.
Karoline Leavitt, a Trump spokesperson, disclosed that several high-profile nominees, including Lee Zeldin and Elise Stefanik, faced violent threats. Zeldin, Trump’s pick for the Environmental Protection Administration, reported a pipe bomb threat with a pro-Palestinian message targeting his family home. Stefanik, nominated for ambassador to the United Nations, received a bomb scare while traveling with her husband and young son.
“These threats are un-American and horrifying,” said Leavitt, urging heightened vigilance among law enforcement.
A Growing Climate of Political Violence
The specter of political violence in the US has grown in recent years, peaking during the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. A Reuters investigation revealed over 200 incidents of political violence since the Capitol riot. The 2024 election cycle has seen heightened tensions, with Trump remaining a polarizing figure.
In September, Springfield, Ohio, experienced bomb threats after Trump’s remarks targeting the city’s Haitian American population. Critics argue that such rhetoric has exacerbated divisions, while Trump supporters cite bias and systemic efforts to undermine the former president.
Outlook for US-Russia Relations
Despite the volatile situation, Putin reiterated Moscow’s readiness for dialogue with the incoming administration. He called for a balanced and constructive approach, even as tensions between the two nations remain high.
