Russian President Vladimir Putin commented on US President Joe Biden’s pardon of his son Hunter, suggesting that the decision reveals a paternal instinct outweighing political considerations.
During his annual end-of-year press conference, Putin stated that President Biden’s pardon of his son Hunter Biden demonstrated a prioritization of familial concern over political strategy. He indicated he wouldn’t criticize the decision.
Responding to a question about the pardon, Putin called it a “subtle issue,” adding, “He is a politician. And it is always important what is more in you – a politician or a human being. It turned out that Biden is more of a human being, I would not condemn him for this.”
Putin offered historical parallels from Russia, citing the case of Joseph Stalin’s son, Yakov, who perished in a German concentration camp. He recalled Stalin’s reported statement, “I will not exchange a field marshal for a soldier.”
Putin highlighted the contrasting circumstances, emphasizing that during wartime, surrender was considered treason, and the nation’s survival demanded stringent measures. He described these actions as “tough, if not brutal.”
Hunter Biden was convicted in June for lying about his drug use when purchasing a firearm. He also pleaded guilty in September to tax-related felonies and misdemeanors, with sentencing pending.
Despite previous pledges not to, President Biden pardoned his son on December 1, asserting that Hunter Biden faced “selective and unfair” prosecution due to his family connections.
The pardon covers offenses potentially committed between January 1, 2014, when Hunter Biden joined the board of a Ukrainian gas company, and December 1, 2024.
US Republicans have alleged that Hunter Biden acted as a conduit in potentially corrupt dealings involving Ukraine and China.
Both Hunter and Joe Biden have consistently denied these allegations, with the president publicly supporting his son and describing him as “the smartest guy I know.”