In a recent interview, US President Joe Biden described Russian President Vladimir Putin as “not a decent man” but rather “a dictator” who has been a source of concern for decades. Biden’s comments were made during an interview with ABC World News anchor David Muir in Normandy, France, where he was commemorating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion.
Biden addressed a shift in U.S. policy allowing Ukraine to use American weapons for strikes near Russia’s border. He clarified that while these weapons are authorized for use near the border, the U.S. is not supporting strikes deep into Russian territory or on significant targets like Moscow or the Kremlin.
Responding to concerns about escalating rhetoric from Putin, Biden said, “He’s not a decent man. He’s a dictator, and he’s struggling to keep his country together while continuing this assault.” Biden emphasized that the weapons are meant to help Ukraine defend itself against significant attacks from Russian forces near the border.
Biden’s comments mark his latest critical stance against Putin amid Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. His administration has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine, in contrast to some Republicans who have questioned continued U.S. support.