In a surprising revelation, Steve Witkoff, a top envoy, shared that Russian President Vladimir Putin prayed for former President Donald Trump after the attempted assassination at a campaign rally last year. During a podcast interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Witkoff recounted Putin’s reaction to the incident, shedding light on the personal bond between the two leaders.
Putin’s Compassionate Response to the Shooting
According to Witkoff, Putin’s response to Trump’s shooting was not only personal but also spiritual. The Russian president, deeply concerned about his friend, visited his local church after learning about the attack. “When the president was shot, he went to his local church and met with his priest and prayed for the president,” Witkoff said. This gesture demonstrated Putin’s emotional connection to Trump, going beyond political ties.
Witkoff further explained that Putin’s actions reflected the friendship between the two men, and he relayed this heartfelt story to Trump. Trump was reportedly “clearly touched” by Putin’s compassion, according to Witkoff.
The Shooting Incident and Its Fallout
The incident took place in Butler, Pennsylvania, last July when Trump, then the Republican presidential candidate, was speaking to a crowd. A bullet fired by 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks grazed Trump. At the time, a Kremlin spokesperson pointed fingers at Trump’s political adversaries, suggesting they were responsible for the attack.
Putin’s Gift to Trump
In addition to his prayers, Putin also commissioned a beautiful portrait of Trump from a renowned Russian artist, which he personally gifted to the former president. This thoughtful gesture further demonstrated the personal relationship between the two leaders, a connection that has long been the subject of scrutiny and debate in the political world.
Trump’s Admiration for Putin
Donald Trump has often expressed his admiration for Vladimir Putin, praising him as a “genius” and a “strong leader.” His comments have frequently drawn criticism from his political opponents, who accuse him of being overly favorable towards the Kremlin. This revelation about Putin’s prayer for Trump adds another layer to their complex and controversial relationship.
Phone Call to Discuss Ukraine
Earlier this week, the two leaders held a two-hour phone call to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump described the conversation as “very good and productive,” signaling that despite their past controversies, the two men maintain an open line of communication.
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