Donald Trump mistakenly referred to the Islamic Republic of Iran as “Japan” and confused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a press conference at a NATO summit in Ankara. These verbal slips occurred during a joint appearance with Zelenskyj, according to reporting on the event.
How did the verbal errors occur?
The misstatements took place over the course of a single press briefing. During his remarks, Trump stated, “We had 111 missiles that were fired by the Islamic Republic of Japan,” according to news reports from the event. Moments later, while addressing the floor for questions, Trump asked reporters, “Do you have a question for President Putin?”
Reporters in attendance immediately corrected the president. Trump responded by attempting to frame the confusion as a joke. “Do you have a question for President Putin, not Zelenskyj, Putin?” he said, before adding, “What would you like to ask him, because I am going to ask him that question.”
This is not the first instance of an American leader confusing the Ukrainian and Russian presidents. In July 2024, Joe Biden introduced Volodymyr Zelenskyj to a stage at a NATO event by mistakenly referring to him as “President Putin.”
What was the context of the Ankara summit?
The NATO summit held in Ankara from July 7–8 focused heavily on the alliance’s ongoing support for Ukraine. Following the public press conference, Trump utilized his Truth Social platform to characterize the meeting as a success. “President Zelenskyj and I just held a press conference with the ‘Fake News’ media,” he wrote. “It went very well. Everyone is looking for a solution. Very positive!”
What is the current status of the conflict with Iran?
Beyond the verbal slips, Trump’s messaging at the summit centered on Iran. Earlier that morning, he declared that a ceasefire was over. Describing the Iranian leadership as “scum,” Trump characterized the current state of the conflict as an “enormous success”. He claimed, “They have no military left. Their air force is wiped out. Their ships are gone.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the press conference take place?
The press conference occurred in Ankara, Turkey, during a NATO summit held July 7–8.
Who did Donald Trump confuse with Vladimir Putin?
Trump addressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj as “President Putin” during the briefing.
What did Trump say about the Iranian military?
Trump claimed the Iranian military is depleted, asserting that their air force and naval capabilities have been destroyed.
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