President Joe Biden, under scrutiny for recent gaffes, suffered another slip-up during the NATO summit in Washington.
Biden Slip Up
According to 20minutos during his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Biden mistakenly introduced Zelensky as "President Putin." This error occurred in a forum focused on aiding Ukraine's defense against Russia.
As leaders of 24 countries were presenting a joint declaration emphasizing Ukraine's security as integral to the "Euro-Atlantic region and beyond," Biden's slip prompted immediate reactions. He quickly corrected himself, attributing the mistake to his intense focus on countering Putin. Zelensky took the blunder in stride, responding humorously, "I am better."
Democratic Concerns Over Biden's Competence
This incident comes at a time when Biden's competency is being questioned within his own Democratic Party, especially following a debate with Donald Trump where he appeared absent. Biden later attributed his performance to exhaustion and a "bad episode."
Prominent Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have suggested Biden reconsider his re-election bid. Senator Peter Welch of Vermont, in a Washington Post column, also expressed doubts about Biden's suitability for a second term.
Public and Political Reactions
The gaffe has fueled broader discussions about Biden's fitness for office.
Actor George Clooney, a known Democrat, commented on Biden's age, saying, "The only battle he can't win is the fight against time."
Despite these concerns, Biden defended his qualifications in a post-summit press conference, downplaying the mistake and reaffirming his intention to run for re-election. He emphasized his experience and readiness to continue leading the country.
