Kamala Harris says Putin benefits most from Trump’s Iran strategy: ‘He’s lifted sanctions on Russia’

WASHINGTON, DC: Former Vice President Kamala Harris sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict, arguing that Russia and President Vladimir Putin are emerging as the biggest beneficiaries of the escalating war in the Middle East. 

Speaking at a recent public event, Harris accused the Trump administration of weakening Ukraine while indirectly strengthening Moscow through changes to US sanctions and military priorities. 

Kamala Harris says Trump’s Iran policy benefits Russia

Harris’s remarks come as Democrats increasingly attack Trump’s foreign policy approach, claiming the administration’s focus on Iran is shifting critical resources away from Ukraine and helping Russia economically.

“You want to know who's the big winner on the Iranian war? Russia,” Harris told the crowd. “Because of the oil issue, what has he done? He’s lifted sanctions on Russia.”

According to Harris, easing sanctions has allowed Moscow to profit from oil sales that were previously restricted under Western pressure tied to the Ukraine war.

“You know what that means? They’re making money to sell oil that otherwise they were prevented from selling,” she said.

Harris also argued that military support originally intended for Ukraine is now being redirected because of rising tensions in Iran.

“What else does it mean? We’re sending artillery ammunition, air defense that otherwise would be going to Ukraine,” she added.

Her comments reflected a growing Democratic view that Trump’s foreign policy choices are hurting US allies and benefiting rivals like Russia. Democrats have often argued that reduced American support for Ukraine could increase Putin’s influence in Eastern Europe and threaten NATO alliances.

Putin’s past Kamala Harris remarks resurface amid Russia debate

Republicans, on the other hand, have backed Trump’s tough approach to Iran. They argue that a stronger military presence is needed to safeguard American interests and restore global stability after years of escalating overseas conflicts.

Harris’ latest remarks also renewed attention on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s unusual comments during the 2024 presidential race, when he publicly claimed he preferred Harris over Trump as America’s leader.

Speaking at the time, Putin jokingly praised Harris’ “infectious laugh” while suggesting Russia would be open to working with her administration.

The remarks quickly sparked backlash from Republicans, who accused Democrats of downplaying the significance of the Russian leader’s comments.

During the Biden administration, Harris and other leading Democrats consistently supported sanctions against Moscow and backed billions of dollars in military aid for Ukraine after Russia invaded.

Democrats often described the conflict as a key struggle between democratic alliances and authoritarian governments.