Putin Defends Trump, Criticizes U.S. Political System as 'Rotten'

Putin believes the criminal cases against Trump are political revenge and highlight corruption in the U.S. system.
Putin views the prosecution of Trump as the politically motivated persecution of a rival.
Putin expresses doubt that U.S.-Russia relations will significantly improve regardless of the 2024 election outcome.
Putin sarcastically welcomes Trump's claim he could quickly resolve the Ukraine crisis if re-elected.
Leading GOP figures reject Putin's criticism and reaffirm the strength of American democracy.