Ruthless Putin blasts ‘shortsighted shock tactics’ of BOTH Donald Trump & Hillary Clinton
VLADIMIR PUTIN has slammed the "shock tactics" of US Presidential contenders Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.
Putin criticised both Trump and Clinton
The Russian president – who has long been rumoured to favour billionaire Republican candidate Donald Trump – has refused to support either candidate and called for the divisive US politicians to be "more dignified".
Putin launched his withering critique of the two politicians in a wide-ranging interview yesterday.
Of their supposedly "shortsighted" campaigns, the ruthless leader said: "They're both using shock tactics, just each in their own way."
Both candidates are playing 'the anti-Russian card', Putin said
They're both using shock tactics, just each in their own way
Accusing both of playing "the anti-Russian card", he added: "I don't think they are setting the best example."
He went on to claim that the Kremlin "would like to work with a person who can make responsible decisions" – and said he did not favour either candidate vying for US Presidency when Americans go to the polls on 8 November.
He told Bloomberg: "Their last name doesn't matter. It's necessary for that person to enjoy the trust of the American people."
Putin made the comments in a wide-ranging interview with Bloomberg
The Russian leader's criticism of Trump reflects a notable shift from his previously warm rhetoric towards the outspoken real estate mogul.
In July, the Republican candidate said he would "get along very well" with Putin – who last year said Trump was a "very colourful and talented man".
The Russian president also maintained his regime has "never intervened" in US politics – despite allegations that Russian security services orchestrated the hack of the Democratic Party's computer network.
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He said: "It’s necessary for that person to enjoy the trust of the American people."
“That’s why we never intervened, don’t intervene and try not to intervene in domestic political processes."