In an interview with French TV station TF1, President Donald Trump quoted Russian President Vladimir Putin’s criticism of American democracy, calling it “a really brilliant and brilliant statement.”
Trump then praised his Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban, an autocrat who has been widely condemned for his hostile treatment of immigrants and democratic institutions.
Trump praised Orban for “putting his nation first” and for the “tremendous job” he has done. He also stated that he has “a lot of respect for” Orban, adding that he is a “highly respected strong leader” and that he has done “a very good job.”
Trump’s admiration for both Putin and Orban has been viewed by critics as further evidence of his desire to weaken democratic institutions and embrace autocrats.
