Today marks the fifth anniversary of Donald Trump refusing to stand up to Vladimir Putin and siding with Russia against the FBI at the Helsinki summit.
On this date in 2018, Trump defended Russia over claims of interference in the 2016 presidential election, saying, “President Putin says it’s not Russia. I don’t see any reason why it would be.” After a two hour-long talk, Trump blamed the U.S. for tensions between the two nations and went so far as to suggest the countries would work together on cybersecurity.
For his comments, Trump was widely criticized by members within his own party for siding with Russia over the United States. Then-Speaker of the House Paul Ryan said there is “no moral equivalence between the United States and Russia” and then-Senator Jeff Flake claimed “I never thought I would see the day when our American President would stand on the stage with the Russian President and place blame on the United States for Russian aggression.”
On the fifth anniversary of Trump cozying up to Putin at the Helsinki summit, American Bridge 21st Century spokesperson Aidan Johnson released the following statement:
“Trump’s dangerous affinity for Putin reflects a blatant disregard for the fundamental principles and values that lie at the core of American democracy. His cozy relationship with a war criminal — known for disregarding human rights and meddling in our democratic processes — serves as a stark reminder of what’s at stake in the upcoming 2024 presidential election.”
American Bridge’s “This F*cking Guy” campaign is reminding voters of key moments from Trump’s presidency as he pursues the GOP nomination in 2024. Our Trump Research Book website exists to help allies find the research needed to defeat Donald Trump. The site is organized into multiple reports designed to help tell the full story about Trump’s failed presidency and make the case against his 2024 campaign.
Published: Jul 15, 2023 | Last Modified: Jul 17, 2023