Biden asserts Putin will not prevail in Ukraine conflict

US President Joe Biden stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin will fail in his ongoing war against Ukraine.

Standing alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Biden reaffirmed unwavering support for Ukraine, asserting, “The United States is committed to standing with you to help Ukraine as it defends against Russia’s onslaught of aggression. It’s clear that Putin will not prevail in this war. The people of Ukraine will prevail.”

The joint appearance highlighted the strategic alignment between the US and UK on key global issues, with Starmer emphasizing the conflict in Ukraine as a “vital war of freedom.” He noted the crucial role the coming months will play in determining Ukraine’s future. Both leaders also discussed other pressing matters, including the Middle East crisis, the release of hostages, a cease-fire in Gaza, and increased humanitarian aid.

Biden and Starmer reiterated their commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting the importance of the AUKUS security partnership between the US, UK, and Australia in maintaining regional stability.

However, the meeting briefly turned tense when Biden clashed with a British journalist who questioned him about Putin’s threats of expanding the war if Ukraine used long-range Western missiles. Biden, visibly irritated, retorted, “I say you be quiet until I speak. Okay? That’s what I say. Good idea?” He later added, “You’ve gotta be quiet, I’m going to make a statement here, okay?”

Despite the exchange, Biden downplayed Putin’s rhetoric regarding a potential direct war with Russia, simply stating, “I don’t think much about Vladimir Putin.”

This meeting marks Starmer’s second as prime minister at the White House, and with Biden’s presidency approaching its final year, both leaders underscored their continued solidarity in facing global threats.