Putin Says Charlie Kirk’s Assassination a ‘Disgusting Atrocity’ That Exposed a ‘Deep Rift’ in America

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday condemned the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a “disgusting atrocity,” claiming the murder underscored a “deep rift” within American society.

Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Group in Sochi, Putin called the Turning Point USA founder a hero for standing firm in his beliefs and extended condolences to Kirk’s family three weeks after the 31-year-old was shot dead during a live event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.

“This is a disgusting atrocity, especially since it was broadcast live,” Putin said. “We all saw it. It was truly horrific. First and foremost, I extend my condolences to Mr. Kirk’s family and all his loved ones. We sympathize and empathize.”

Putin then framed the killing as evidence of turmoil inside the United States. “What happened is a sign of a deep rift in society,” he declared. “In the United States, I don’t think there’s any need to escalate the situation externally because the country’s political leadership is trying to restore order domestically.”

Kirk, a father of two and one of the Right’s most visible young voices, was gunned down in front of a campus audience. Prosecutors charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, described as holding “leftist ideologies” and living with a transgender partner, with aggravated murder and multiple other offenses for the brazen execution.

Conservatives have blamed the climate of hostility created by radical rhetoric on the Left, warning that political violence is spiraling. Vigils and memorials for Kirk have drawn thousands across the country.

At the same event, Putin also took aim at President Donald Trump for labeling Russia a “paper tiger” last month, after Trump mocked Moscow’s stalled war in Ukraine.

“We are fighting against the entire bloc of NATO and we keep moving, keep advancing and feel confident — and we are a paper tight, what NATO itself is?” Putin said. “A paper tiger? Go and deal with this paper tiger then.”