As he commenced his visit to Ireland, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed reporters at Shannon Airport, stating, “It’s a mistake. I think the United States has given a lot of support to Ukrainians. We can forget some mistakes, I think so.”
Zelensky is set to meet Irish leader Simon Harris at the airport later on Saturday, marking their first bilateral meeting on Irish soil.
When asked for his message to Ireland, Zelensky expressed gratitude: “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 reiterate Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s bid for EU membership.
Zelensky’s visit to Ireland follows his trip to Washington, where he attended a summit marking NATO’s 75th anniversary. It was at this summit that 81-year-old President Joe Biden made a notable gaffe 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 as he announced a NATO-Ukraine compact.
Biden turned away from the lectern before returning and exclaiming, “President Putin! He’s going to beat President Putin. President Zelensky, I’m so focused on beating Putin we gotta worry about it. Anyway, Mr. President.”
Zelensky immediately quipped that he was “better” than Putin, but the incident has heightened concerns about Biden’s age and mental acuity.
Despite this, Biden has affirmed his commitment to running for another term in November.
