LONDON (AP) - In his first post-presidential interview, Joe Biden criticized former President Donald Trump's approach towards Ukraine, drawing parallels to "modern-day appeasement." This term historically refers to the failed efforts of former British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in the 1930s to prevent Adolf Hitler from annexing European lands, ultimately leading to World War II. Biden expressed his concerns during a segment on BBC Radio 4's "Today" program, aired on Wednesday, highlighting how Trump's pressure on Ukraine to concede territory to Russia undermines American values.
Biden specifically mentioned how Trump's comments about acquiring territories such as Panama, Greenland, and Canada have fueled distrust in the United States among European nations. "What president ever talks like that?" Biden questioned, asserting that America should stand for freedom, democracy, and opportunity rather than confiscation.
In the interview, Biden also discussed his challenging decision to withdraw from the U.S. presidential race in 2024, stating that he did so to allow former Vice President Kamala Harris to run against Trump. He reflected on criticisms regarding the timing of his decision, indicating that acting sooner would not have made a significant difference.
The concept of appeasement, as Biden explained, is embedded in the history of diplomatic relations and reflects the dangers of yielding to aggressive nations. Trump has often dismissed the conflict in Ukraine, considering it a waste of lives and taxpayer money. During his presidency, he briefly paused military aid to Ukraine before resuming it. Recently, an agreement was reached between the U.S. and Ukraine that provides American access to Ukraine's extensive mineral resources, a situation Trump described as beneficial for potential increases in U.S. aid.
Biden expressed apprehension about Trump’s declaration that Crimea, a strategic region illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, "will stay with Russia." He expressed concerns over the deteriorating relationship between the U.S. and European allies during Trump's presidency, noting that NATO member nations are questioning their trust in American leadership. Biden stressed that Europe was losing confidence in the reliability of the U.S., with leaders wondering if America would remain a dependable ally.
Particularly alarming for Biden was Trump’s administration proposal that sought to allow Russia to retain some Ukrainian territory as part of a peace deal intended to end hostilities. He categorically condemned this approach as "modern-day appeasement." Biden underscored the importance of alliances, stating that he struggles to understand how the Trump administration failed to recognize their significance.
Regarding Trump's assessment of his first 100 days in office, Biden refrained from making judgments at the moment and suggested that history would provide a clearer evaluation. He remarked, "I don’t see anything that was triumphant," highlighting his disapproval of Trump’s presidency and its impacts on both domestic and international fronts.
