Putin Claims He Prayed for Trump After Assassination Attempt

Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly said he prayed for President Donald Trump after a bullet grazed his ear in 2024. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff relayed the remarks highlighting an unusual personal tie between the leaders. The statement comes amid scrutiny of Russia’s stance toward Trump’s administration.

Putin’s comments reference a July 2024 incident when Trump survived an assassin’s attack. The then-candidate was campaigning when shot at sustaining a minor injury. Witkoff shared the anecdote during a diplomatic briefing underscoring Putin’s outreach.

The two have maintained a complex rapport despite geopolitical frictions. Trump often praised Putin’s strength during his first term a stance critics labeled naive. Putin’s prayer claim suggests a bid to bolster that bond in Trump’s second tenure.

U.S.-Russia relations remain strained over Ukraine and election interference probes. Putin’s forces continue a war in Ukraine defying Western sanctions. His gesture toward Trump could hint at hopes for eased tensions or strategic leverage.

Domestic reaction splits along familiar lines in America. Trump allies see it as proof of his global stature among strongmen. Detractors question if it signals undue Russian sway over U.S. policy ahead.

Witkoff a Trump confidant framed the story as evidence of personal loyalty. He noted Putin called Trump “his friend” in private talks. Skeptics wonder if it’s Kremlin spin to curry favor with the White House.

The assassination attempt rattled Trump’s 2024 campaign but galvanized his base. He won re-election months later touting resilience against threats. Putin’s alleged prayers add a curious footnote to that narrative.

Analysts say the remark fits Putin’s pattern of cultivating ties with populist figures. Whether it softens U.S. posture toward Moscow remains unclear. For now it’s a diplomatic oddity amid broader superpower rivalry.