Russian state television has taken a derisive stance on the recent developments in the U.S. presidential race, following President Joe Biden's announcement on Sunday that he is stepping down from the race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic candidate.
Mocked Biden's Age
Ziare reports that Russian media figures, known for their loyalty to the Kremlin, have used the opportunity to ridicule Biden and his decision.
Vladimir Soloviov, a prominent talk-show host on Rossia 1 and a staunch Kremlin supporter, mocked Biden’s age, jokingly suggesting, "Grandpa, if you’ve been taken hostage, give a signal."
This quip highlights the tone of the Russian media's response to Biden's exit from the race. During Soloviov's show, guests questioned whether Biden was even aware of his own withdrawal, given his "remarkable" performance at a recent debate.
Racist Attack on Harris
Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, raised similar doubts on air, asking, "Is Biden aware of the statement issued under his signature saying he is no longer running?" Another guest, Andrei Sidorov, a professor of international relations at Moscow State University, resorted to racist attacks in criticizing Harris, suggesting that her role as a potential new leader is akin to having "a monkey with a grenade."
Rossia 1 aired a segment titled "Tired and Wounded," featuring Biden’s withdrawal statement, with one of the network’s U.S. correspondents humorously noting that it seemed as though "Joe Biden has not merely withdrawn from the race but has died."
Despite the mockery, the Kremlin has indicated that it will continue to monitor the U.S. electoral race closely. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, emphasized that with four months remaining until the election, there is still much time for developments, and Russia’s primary focus remains on its ongoing conflict with Kiev.
