Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 Presidential race has elicited reactions from global leaders, each acknowledging the significance of his decision and its implications.
Biden, who has endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris as his successor, stated he would “focus all my energies on my duties as President” for the remainder of his term.
Many international leaders have praised his foreign policy accomplishments and recognized the difficulty of his choice.
Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted Biden’s impact on transatlantic cooperation and NATO, remarking, “Thanks to [Biden], transatlantic cooperation is close, NATO is strong, and the USA is a good and reliable partner for us. His decision not to run again deserves recognition.”
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed respect for Biden’s decision, noting, “I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, President Biden will have made his decision based on what he believes is in the best interests of the American people.”
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau lauded Biden as a “true friend” to Canadians and praised his dedication, stating, “He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country.”
Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk acknowledged Biden’s difficult decisions throughout his career, saying, “Mr. Biden has made difficult decisions that have kept the world safer, and democracy and freedom stronger. I know that you were guided by the same principles when announcing your latest decision.”
Despite his recent underperformance in debates and intense pressure from Democrats, Biden had previously indicated he intended to continue his campaign. At 81, he is the oldest person to have served as President.
Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida noted Biden’s decision as one he considers “the best political decision he can make,” emphasizing the importance of the Japan-US alliance and vowing to “monitor the situation closely.”
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala described Biden’s withdrawal as “responsible and personally difficult… but all the more valuable,” while also acknowledging the increasing political uncertainty in the US.
He expressed hope for a strong successor, stating, “I am keeping my fingers crossed for the USA that a good president emerges from the democratic competition of two strong and equal candidates.”
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani suggested that Italy will adapt to whoever becomes the next US president, saying, “We will work well with whoever the next president is, whether Trump or Harris.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Biden’s “tough but strong decision” and expressed gratitude for his “unwavering support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom,” hoping for continued strong American leadership against Russian aggression.
In contrast, Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro called Biden’s decision “the most sensible and correct,” commenting on Biden’s age and health. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that Russia’s focus remains on its war in Ukraine, advising patience as “a lot can change” before the US election.
Source-BBC
