Biden introduces Zelensky as ‘President Putin’ at NATO summit
Joe Biden has mistakenly introduced Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky as “President Putin” in a new gaffe, further increasing concerns about his mental fitness ahead of the November presidential election.
The gaffe was made during a signing ceremony on the final day of a NATO summit in Washington on Thursday.
“Now I want to hand it over to the president of Ukraine, who has as much courage as he has determination,” Biden said at the end of his opening remarks.
“Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin!” he said, naming the Russian leader whose country has been engaged in a war with Ukraine since 2022.
While some leaders started clapping and others remained motionless and seemingly shocked, Biden returned to the microphone to acknowledge his mistake, saying, “President Putin! We’re going to beat President Putin. President Zelensky. I’m so focused on beating Putin. We’ve got to worry about it. Anyway, Mr President.”
Biden: "And now I want to hand it over to the President of Ukraine... ladies and gentlemen, President Putin."
— PressTV Extra (@PresstvExtra) July 11, 2024
Maybe the money is coming to Russia… pic.twitter.com/lIfRlyFwWE
That took place just an hour before a rare press conference by Biden that has been called “make-or-break” for his campaign, as a growing number of political allies and donors have been urging the 81-year-old to exit the presidential race after his poor debate performance against his 78-year-old rival, former President Donald Trump.
Shortly afterward, President Biden made yet another error when he referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as "Vice President Trump" during a news conference.
"Look, I wouldn't have picked Vice President Trump to be vice president if she was not qualified to be president. So start there," he said in response to a journalist's question about his confidence in Harris.
US President Joe Biden calls Former US President Donald Trump as his Vice President during a press conference. pic.twitter.com/rJ77ANOP2w
— PressTV Extra (@PresstvExtra) July 12, 2024
Following the June 27 debate, some Democrats expressed grave concerns about the incumbent president’s mental sharpness and endurance at such an advanced age.
There is a growing effort within the Democrat Party to convince Biden to quit, as critics caution that he is very likely to lose and could negatively impact other Democrats.
During a 22-minute interview with ABC News, Biden once again argued that he simply had a bad night at the debate but was otherwise fine.
“It was a bad episode. No indication of any serious condition. I was exhausted. I didn’t listen to my instincts in terms of preparing and – and a bad night,” he said.
Biden also dismissed polls that showed him trailing his arch-rival Trump, claiming that other polls have him in a better position.
Florida shooting: FBI probing ‘attempted assassination’ of Trump
Pope asks US Catholics to choose 'lesser evil' from Harris and Trump
What to expect after crazy Harris-Trump debate
Pro-Saudi official urges Israel to assist in fight against Yemen's Ansarullah
VIDEO | Press TV's news headlines
Defense minister: Iran fully supports Maduro government in Venezuela
President: Iran seeks good ties with all, but doesn’t brook bullying
VIDEO | Iranians mark Islamic unity week
Nasrallah: Blasts declaration of war, enemy to face tough retribution
VIDEO | BRICS new payment system
Iran ranks first at World Innovation Award 2024 ceremony in Moscow
PressTV NEWSLETTER
now
This makes it easy to access the Press TV website
