DUBLIN: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shrugged off a recent gaffe by US President Joe Biden, who mistakenly referred to him as Russian leader Vladimir Putin, saying that such errors can be forgiven amid ongoing strong support from the United States.
Speaking at Shannon Airport during his visit to Ireland, Zelensky said that “It’s a mistake. I believe the United States has provided significant support to Ukrainians. We can overlook some mistakes, I think so.”
During his visit, Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, marking their first bilateral meeting on Irish soil. Expressing gratitude to Ireland for its support and hospitality towards Ukrainian refugees since the beginning of Russia’s invasion, Zelensky highlighted the importance of Ireland’s backing for Ukraine’s aspirations to join the European Union, a topic expected to be discussed during his talks with Harris.
Zelensky’s visit to Ireland follows his participation in the NATO summit in Washington, where the incident involving Biden’s slip-up occurred. Biden, 81, initially referred to Zelensky as “President Putin” before correcting himself, jokingly remarking about his focus on countering Putin. Zelensky responded with humor, asserting he was “better” than Putin, although the incident raised concerns regarding Biden’s age and mental sharpness. Despite these concerns, Biden has reaffirmed his intention to seek re-election in November.
