Joseph Biden actually said...

"[th]e Putin government has selectively and ruthlessly utilized its prosecutorial powers to silence incipient rivals and thereby intimidate other potential opponents."

"[t]he imprisonment and legal proceedings against Khodorkovsky have violated virtually every canon of fairness and legality."

"Vigorous U.S. engagement to promote opening of trans-Caspian energy trade and investment is an important priority for U.S. interests."

"I think it's always good to talk to -- to talk to the -- the requisite members of Congress. I think it was just a mistake."