In a recent statement, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov downplayed President Vladimir Putin’s endorsement of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris as a lighthearted jest. Lavrov’s comments came after Putin claimed that, having previously supported President Joe Biden, he would now back Harris, citing her infectious laughter as a sign of her campaign’s positivity.
Speaking to reporters in Vladivostok, Lavrov emphasized that the outcome of the upcoming U.S. elections holds little significance for Moscow, which views Washington as being under the control of a so-called “deep state.” This term refers to entrenched bureaucrats and agency leaders who, according to Lavrov, exert control over U.S. policy irrespective of elected officials.
Putin’s remarks quickly drew attention in the U.S., prompting the White House to call on the Russian leader to refrain from commenting on American elections. Lavrov noted that Putin often employs humor in his public discourse, but reiterated Moscow’s position that American political figures—including Harris, former President Donald Trump, and others—are ultimately interchangeable in the face of the entrenched political establishment.
In a nod to historical grievances, Lavrov remarked that the U.S. has maintained a consistent foreign policy, which has included sanctions against Russia regardless of the presidential administration. He criticized both Biden and Trump, stating that neither has significantly altered the underlying U.S. approach to foreign relations.
Lavrov asserted that Russia must pivot to a self-reliant strategy, rejecting the notion of depending on favorable leaders in Washington. “We will never again in our history rely on the fact that a ‘good uncle’ will come to the White House,” he stated, signaling a shift towards greater Russian independence in its international dealings.
