Following a meeting with Nordic leaders in Helsinki after the NATO summit in Lithuania, President Biden experienced a brief stumble while boarding Air Force One on Thursday. Video footage shows him momentarily losing his footing mid-staircase before quickly regaining his balance and continuing to the top, where he waved to onlookers at Helsinki-Vantaan International Airport. This incident comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the President's physical health, with past instances of trips and falls fueling public discussion. Before departing, Biden reaffirmed the United States' unwavering commitment to NATO in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and criticism from some Republicans. During a press conference with Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, he expressed confidence in the alliance, stating it's "the best bet anyone could make," while emphasizing bipartisan Congressional and public support, despite dissent from what he termed "extreme elements" within the Republican Party. This stance contrasts sharply with former President Trump's alignment with Vladimir Putin during his 2018 Helsinki visit.

