US President Joe Biden mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Russian President Vladimir Putin at the NATO summit in Washington on Thursday. The error occurred as Biden handed over the floor to Zelenskyy, praising his courage and determination. “And now I want to hand it over to the president of Ukraine, who has as much courage as he has determination, ladies and gentlemen, President Putin,” Biden said, before quickly correcting himself. “President Putin, you’re going to beat President Putin, President Zelenskyy. I am so focused on beating Putin.”

The room reacted with gasps, and Zelenskyy responded lightheartedly, saying, “I am better (than Putin).” Biden concurred, “You are a hell of a lot better,” eliciting laughter before Zelenskyy began his address. The mix-up came during an event where Biden launched an initiative with allies to support Ukraine’s security needs.

Biden has been under scrutiny recently, facing doubts about his re-election chances after a lackluster debate performance against former President Donald Trump. Despite the scrutiny, Biden remains committed to his re-election bid, asserting that he is best positioned to defeat Trump in the upcoming November elections.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz defended Biden, stating that “slips of the tongue happen.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, however, avoided questions about Biden’s fitness for presidency, instead praising his leadership at the NATO summit.

In a solo press conference later that day, Biden addressed his gaffe and emphasized the success of the summit. “Have you seen a more successful conference?” he asked reporters.

Throughout the summit, NATO members reiterated their support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. The US has been a crucial partner in providing military assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began in February 2022. Earlier, Biden reassured Zelenskyy of unwavering US support, stating, “We will stay with you, period.”

#MaltaDaily