The Kremlin has rebuked President Joe Biden of the United States for derogatory remarks labeling Russian President Vladimir Putin a "crazy SOB," with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticizing Biden's choice of language.
Peskov condemned Biden's remarks, stating, "The use of such language against the head of another state by the president of the United States is unlikely to infringe on our president, President Putin. But it debases those who use such vocabulary."
He further suggested that Biden's comment may have been an attempt to portray himself as a "Hollywood cowboy," but expressed doubt over its effectiveness.
The criticism extended beyond Peskov, with Putin's ally Dmitry Medvedev, a former president, characterizing Biden as a "senile" leader and describing him as a "useless old geezer" posing an existential threat to the world.
Biden's comment came during a fundraiser in San Francisco, where he remarked on the climate crisis, citing concerns about nuclear conflict with leaders like Putin. Biden has a history of making controversial remarks, including similar derogatory language aimed at others.
In addition to criticizing Putin, Biden has accused him and his associates of involvement in the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, allegations that Moscow has dismissed, emphasizing that Navalny's death is still under investigation.
The White House has signaled forthcoming sanctions against Russia over Navalny's death and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, despite Moscow's denial of involvement and calls for evidence.
The exchange of rhetoric underscores the strained relations between the United States and Russia, with tensions escalating over various issues, including Navalny's death and the conflict in Ukraine.