United States president, Donald Trump, on Sunday congratulated France for winning the 2018 World Cup and praised Russian President Vladimir Putin for putting on a “truly great” tournament.
“Congratulations to France, who played extraordinary soccer, on winning the 2018 World Cup. Additionally, congratulations to President Putin and Russia for putting on a truly great World Cup Tournament — one of the best ever!” Trump tweeted.
Congratulations to France, who played extraordinary soccer, on winning the 2018 World Cup. Additionally, congratulations to President Putin and Russia for putting on a truly great World Cup Tournament — one of the best ever!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 15, 2018
France defeated Croatia 4-2 in the final to clinch their second accolade.
The match was briefly interrupted during the second half by protesters who ran out onto the field.
The Associated Press reported that punk band Pussy Riot, which has spoken out against Putin, took credit for the protests.
Trump offered his congratulations to both France and the host country, Russia, while he was en route to Helsinki, Finland, for a meeting with Putin.
The president has drawn criticism from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle for his reluctance to speak out against Putin and Russia, particularly for attempting to meddle in the 2016 election, and for his generally friendly air toward the country and its leader.
