Biden calls Zelensky ‘President Putin’: Joe makes huge gaffe just before his ‘big boy’ press conference
President Joe Biden introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as “President Putin” in a brazen gaffe at the NATO summit that left his political future hanging by a thread.
The 81-year-old, who has faced increasing calls to withdraw from the presidential race, said: “Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin.”
The huge blunder in front of world leaders caused astonishment and amazement, and those present had to shout out the correct name.
“No, we’re going to defeat Putin,” Biden said.
He made his gaffe in front of allies around the world who had attended the announcement and shortly before his all-time news conference, where his performance will determine whether he remains the Democratic presidential nominee.
President Joe Biden on Thursday referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by name as Vladimir Putin
When Biden made his blunder, he had announced a new $225 million aid package for Ukraine that included a Patriot missile system to bolster air defenses against Russian airstrikes.
“And now I want to turn it over to the president of Ukraine, who has equal parts courage and determination. Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin,” Biden said.
He turned from the stage and then heard the screams of those shouting “Zelensky” at him.
“President Putin? We’re going to defeat President Putin. President Zelensky! I’m so focused on defeating Putin. We have to care about it — no matter what, Mr. President,” he said.
“I’m doing better,” Zelensky said.
“You’re a lot better,” Biden replied.
President Biden called Zelensky by the name of Russian President Vladimir Putin (above)
Biden made his mistake shortly before his first solo press conference in nine months, when the eyes of the world will be on him as he faces mounting pressure from Democrats to withdraw from the presidential race.
This press conference is also called a ‘big boys’ press conference. The pressure on the president is great and he has to show that he can handle an unexpected moment without making big mistakes.
But the major blunder does not bode well for the president, who has failed to stem the wave of criticism against him.
In the two weeks since the first presidential debate, Biden has failed to convince Democrats that he can beat Donald Trump in November. In fact, fears are growing that he will drag Democratic candidates down with him.