Putin Thinks Donald Trump Is the 'Absolute Leader of the Presidential Race'

When comedian Amy Schumer and Jennifer Lawrence became friends it was surprising but it made perfect sense. A new and unexpected friendship might be brewing between two out-spoken leaders—Russian President Vladimir Putin and presidential candidate Donald Trump.

President Putin spoke highly of the reality star and business mogul at an annual news conference held on Thursday. "He is a bright and talented person without any doubt." The Russian TASS News Agencyreports that Putin said he considers Trump to be "the absolute leader of the [U.S.] presidential race."

It seems as though the feelings are mutual. According to CNN, Trump praised Putin in a statement that was released by his campaign spokeswoman Hope Hicks. "It is always a great honor to be so nicely complimented by a man so highly respected within his own country and beyond."

Trump continued to applaud Putin for complimenting his presidential race and hopes to work with Russia not only by "defeating terrorism and restoring world peace" together but he also wants to "trade and [have] all of the other benefits derived from mutual respect." One thing is for sure, both leaders aren't afraid to speak their mind.

According to the Russian TASS News Agency, Putin didn't want to comment on the subject of Trump's rhetoric, especially surrounding the Islamophobic remarks Trump continues to make. "Intra–political things–his turn of phrase to prop up his popularity..." is not a concern of Russia's." In fact, the Russian President continued, "It is none of our business to estimate this work of his."