Biden generates concern again: He fell asleep during African leaders' summit in Angola

President Joe Biden, 82, was heavily criticized after he was caught on video apparently asleep during a summit with African leaders in Angola. The incident, which occurred while Tanzanian Vice President Philip Mpango was speaking, generated a wave of comments on social media questioning the president's ability to handle the demands of his office.

Biden kept his eyes closed for over a minute at a table surrounded by senior African officials. Although the president actively participated before and after the captured moment, the images have fueled doubts about his energy and fitness, especially during a three-day international trip.

Debate on social media

Social media was quick to react. Clay Travis, founder of Outkick, commented on X: "Joe Biden fell asleep during a meeting with African leaders today (...) Who puts an 82 year old on a plane for a THREE DAY trip to Africa?! Three days! So dumb."

Jake Schneider, former rapid response director for Donald Trump's campaign, noted, "Biden literally falls asleep during his own meeting in Africa. Who's running the country?" For his part, host Ross Kaminsky described the episode as "embarrassing" and questioned the global perception of the United States under his leadership.

So far, the White House has not issued statements on the incident, leaving the interpretation of the images open.

Priorities under scrutiny

Biden's visit to Angola, the first to Africa during his presidency, seeks to strengthen ties with the continent and cement America's role as a leader in humanitarian assistance. He announced a $1 billion aid package for Africans displaced by drought and food insecurity during his speech.

However, the attention generated by the incident has shifted the focus away from these commitments, while in the U.S., communities such as North Carolina continue to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.