Zelensky Brushes Off Biden’s Putin Gaffe as a ‘Mistake’

AFP/APP

Dublin: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday downplayed US President Joe Biden’s gaffe, in which he mistakenly introduced Zelensky as Russian foe Vladimir Putin.

 “It’s a mistake,” Zelensky said at Shannon Airport as he began his visit to Ireland. “I think the United States has given a lot of support to Ukrainians. We can forget some mistakes, I think so.”

Zelensky is scheduled to meet Irish leader Simon Harris later on Saturday, marking their first bilateral meeting on Irish soil. 

Expressing gratitude to Ireland, Zelensky said, “First of all, thank you so much for your support. Thanks to Ireland for hosting many Ukrainian refugees. You were with us from the very beginning of the Russian invasion.”

During their talks, Harris is expected to reaffirm Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s bid for EU membership. Zelensky’s visit to Ireland follows his attendance at a summit in Washington, marking NATO’s 75th anniversary.

The gaffe occurred at the summit when the 81-year-old Biden mistakenly introduced Zelensky as “President Putin” before quickly correcting himself. 

“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 correcting himself: “President Zelensky — I’m so focused on beating Putin we gotta worry about it. Anyway, Mr. President.”

Zelensky responded humorously, saying he was “better” than Putin. Despite this lighthearted reaction, the incident has raised concerns about Biden’s age and mental acuity. Nonetheless, Biden has insisted he is committed to running for another term in November.