On Thursday, President Biden mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as President Putin – the president of Russia – when introducing him at a NATO event, a gaffe that occurred just before a high-stakes press conference, where your every word will be closely scrutinized.
“Now, I want to give the floor to the president of Ukraine, who has both courage and determination. Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin,” Biden said.
“He will defeat President Putin. President Zelensky,” Biden said, correcting quickly himself. “I’m so focused on defeating Putin that we have to worry about that.”
“I’m better,” joked Zelensky.
“You’re doing much better,” Biden added.
@thehillpolitics President Biden mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as President Putin when introducing him at a NATO event, a gaffe that occurred just before a high-stakes press conference where his every word will be closely scrutinized. “Now, I want to give the floor to the president of Ukraine, who has both courage and determination. Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin,” Biden said. He will defeat President Putin. President Zelensky,” Biden said, quickly correcting himself. “I’m so focused on defeating Putin that we need to worry about that.” Biden’s stumble will draw significant attention as he fends off calls from some Democrats to step down as the party’s nominee in November following his disastrous debate performance last month. #JoeBiden #born #zelensky #Ukraine #2024election #White House #Congress #policy #the hill #fyp ♬ original sound – TheHill
Support for Ukraine has been a cornerstone of Biden’s foreign policy and has been central to discussions during this week’s NATO summit. The White House announced additional military support for Ukraine in its war against invading Russian forces as part of the summit.
But Biden’s stumble will attract significant attention as he fends off calls from some Democrats to step down as the party’s nominee in November following his disastrous debate performance last month. Democrats have expressed concern that Biden lacks the mental sharpness and stamina to campaign vigorously against former President Trump and present a case for success to the American public.
Democrats will closely watch Biden’s press conference Thursday night to see if he shows he is up to the task of coherently and accurately responding to reporters’ questions. But some have suggested that a strong performance will not be enough to allay voters’ concerns.
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