DNC Deputy Communications Director Adrienne Watson released this statement in response to the White House’s account of today’s call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin:

“Trump’s bromance with Putin appears to be back on track.  Instead of sending Putin a tough messaging on backing Assad’s brutal regime, Trump appears to be opting for a strategy of appeasement. 

“Just days ago, Trump once again cast doubt on whether Russia attacked our democracy.  With no apparent talk of Russia’s abysmal record on human rights, no clear message on Assad’s future in Syria, and no condemnation of Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine, it’s clear that ultimately, Putin is getting what he wants from Trump.”