Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded graciously to U.S. President Joe Biden's accidental reference to him as Russian President Vladimir Putin during a NATO summit. Zelenskyy acknowledged it as a mistake, emphasizing the substantial support that Ukraine has received from the United States. Speaking to reporters at Ireland's Shannon airport, where he met with Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, Zelenskyy stated, "It's a mistake. I think the United States gave a lot of support for Ukrainians. We can forget some mistakes, I think so."
The incident occurred on July 12 during the NATO summit in Washington, where Biden initially introduced Zelenskyy as Putin before quickly correcting himself. Biden's slip occurred during an event where he announced a new initiative with NATO allies aimed at bolstering Ukraine's security.
Upon correcting himself, Biden assured, "President Putin, you're going to beat President Zelenskyy. I am so focused on beating Putin." The moment drew surprise from the room, followed by light-hearted remarks from both leaders. Zelenskyy, in response to Biden's mix-up, humorously asserted, "I am better (than Putin)." Biden swiftly replied, "You are a hell of a lot better," prompting laughter before Zelenskyy proceeded with his address.
