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Biden to attend Queen's funeral, while the Kremlin announces Putin will not go
US President Joe Biden has said that he would attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, while spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said in his daily press briefing on Friday (Sep 9), Russian President Vladimir Putin is not planning on going to Queen Elizabeth's funeral.
Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, died on Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland after reigning for 70 years. She was 96.
The date of her funeral has not been confirmed, but it is expected to take place on September 19 in Westminster Abbey, the same church where the Queen was crowned in 1953.
The Queen’s funeral is expected to attract presidents, prime ministers, kings, and queens as well as huge crowds from home and abroad.
On Thursday (Sep 8), Biden in his tribute to the Queen spoke fondly of their first meeting in 1982 and more recently when she hosted him during an overseas trip in 2021.
“She charmed us with her wit, moved us with her kindness, and generously shared with us her wisdom. She stood in solidarity with the United States during our darkest days after 9/11, when she poignantly reminded us that, ‘Grief is the price we pay for love’,” he said.
The Russian leader sent his condolences to newly-appointed King Charles III following the death of Her Majesty.
In an open letter, published on the Kremlin’s website, Putin said: “Your Majesty, Please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
1st official rendition of God Save the King sung at St Paul's Cathedral memorial service
"The most important events in the recent history of the United Kingdom are inextricably linked with the name of Her Majesty.
“For many decades, Elizabeth II rightfully enjoyed the love and respect of her subjects, as well as authority on the world stage.
"I wish you courage and perseverance in the face of this heavy, irreparable loss.
“I ask you to convey the words of sincere sympathy and support to the members of the royal family and all the people of Great Britain. Sincerely, Vladimir Putin."
Vladimir Putin offers condolences to King Charles after the Queen's 'irreparable loss'
“Yes. I do not know what the details are yet, but I will be going,” Biden told reporters at the Columbus International Airport in Ohio on Friday (Sep 9).
He was responding to a question of whether he will be going to the Queen’s funeral.
In response to another question, the president said he has not spoken to King Charles III yet. “I know him. I have not spoken to him yet,” he added.
Regarding President Putin, his attendance at the Queen's funeral "is not being considered", Peskov said, although "Russians respected her for her wisdom."
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