Russian President Vladimir Putin recently praised Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, so Trump decided to return the favor.
“He’s a very colorful person. Talented, without any doubt,” Putin said.
Putin also called Trump “a very bright person,” and noted that Trump is the “absolute leader in the presidential race.
Trump was asked about the praise during a recent interview with MSNBC, and he didn’t hesitate in praising Putin.
“I always felt fine about Putin,” Trump said. “I think that he’s a strong leader. He’s a powerful leader … He’s actually got a popularity within his country. They respect him as a leader.”
Trump also called the praise “a great honor.”
When the host tried to get Trump to criticize Putin, Trump responded positively. “He’s running his country, and at least he’s a leader,” Trump replied. “Unlike what we have in this country.”
