Donald Trump Returns the Favor, Praises Russian Leader Putin

Donald Trump has returned the favor and praised Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday for being "a leader," just one day after Putin called him "talented."

When speaking about Putin's alleged killing of political opponents and journalists who question his rule over Russia, the U.S. Republican Presidential candidate seemingly defended the leader by stating, "He's running his country and at least he's a leader, unlike what we have in this country. I think our country does plenty of killing also, Joe, so you know. There's a lot of stupidity going on in the world right now, a lot of killing, a lot of stupidity."

Trump, who was speaking with Republican host Joe Scarborough on MSNBC's "Morning Joe," added that he would condemn Putin's actions if they were true.

Trump also offered his opinions in regards to what the U.S. should do about the Russia - Ukraine conflict.

"I think maybe we should do a little following and let the neighbors take a little bit more of an active role in the Ukraine," he said before adding that as president, he would work hard to build a relationship with Russia, who many see as the U.S.'s adversary.

Trump, however, believes that the country could potentially be a "big asset."

"A lot of good things could happen with Russia if we get along with Russia and if they respect us," Trump explained. "Putin doesn't respect our president."

Trump's stance on Putin is interesting given that the majority of Americans do not have a positive opinion on the Russian leader.

Trump is currently leading the GOP with 41 percent support from registered voters who are Republicans or leaning toward the Republican ballot, according to the Monmouth University Poll.