President Joe Biden scolded a British journalist for breaking White House protocol during a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday.
The incident occurred in the Blue Room of the White House when Sky News correspondent James Matthews attempted to ask a question before Biden made his opening statement.
According to Daily Mail Online, the president firmly instructed the reporter to remain quiet until he had spoken. Biden's rebuke came as he and Starmer prepared to discuss several crucial international issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and potential changes to missile use policies.
Biden's response to the reporter was notably stern. When Matthews tried to ask a question about Vladimir Putin, the president immediately cut him off.
Biden said:
I say you be quiet until I speak, OK? That's what I say. Good idea?
When the journalist persisted, Biden reiterated his instruction:
You've got to be quiet, and I'm going to make a statement, OK.
After the initial exchange, both leaders proceeded with their opening statements as planned. Biden emphasized the strong partnership between the United States and the United Kingdom, stating that there is no global issue where the two nations cannot work together effectively.
Following the formal statements, the reporter again inquired about Putin. Biden's response was brief, saying he doesn't think much about the Russian leader. However, the meeting between Biden and Starmer was set to cover significant topics, particularly regarding Ukraine's request to use long-range missiles against targets within Russia.
Prior to the meeting, Biden had indicated a new openness to allowing Ukraine to employ such weapons. This potential policy shift comes amid warnings from Putin that such actions could lead to escalated conflict. The British government has already provided Ukraine with Storm Shadow missiles, though their use is currently restricted to targets within Ukrainian borders.
Prime Minister Starmer, speaking to reporters en route to Washington, dismissed Putin's threats. He emphasized that Russia initiated the conflict by illegally invading Ukraine and that Ukraine has the right to self-defense. Starmer stressed that while they fully support Ukraine's defensive capabilities, they do not seek conflict with Russia.
The British leader's comments reflect the delicate balance Western nations are trying to maintain in supporting Ukraine while avoiding direct confrontation with Russia. Starmer's visit to Washington, his second meeting with Biden since taking office in July, underscores the importance of US-UK relations in addressing global challenges.
In summary, President Biden reprimanded a British reporter for breaking protocol during a meeting with UK Prime Minister Starmer. The leaders discussed potential changes in missile use policies for Ukraine despite Russian threats.
Starmer affirmed support for Ukraine while emphasizing the desire to avoid conflict with Russia. The meeting highlighted the ongoing complexities of the Ukraine conflict and the importance of US-UK cooperation in addressing international issues.
