In a surprising move that has reshaped the 2024 race for the White House, President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that he would not be seeking reelection. The decision, communicated through a heartfelt letter, has garnered reactions from leaders around the world, who have expressed their admiration and respect for Biden’s service and his decision to step down.
Joe Biden’s Decision and Endorsement
Biden’s announcement, which came in the form of a letter to the public, was a shock to many and significantly alters the dynamics of the upcoming presidential race. In his letter, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s new nominee, setting the stage for a historic campaign.
European Allies React
Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine
Ukraine is grateful to President Biden for his unwavering support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom, which, along with strong bipartisan support in the United States, has been and continues to be critical.
Many strong decisions have been made in recent years and they will be…
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) July 21, 2024
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was among the first to respond, thanking Biden for his unwavering support during Ukraine’s most challenging times. “He supported our country during the most dramatic moment in history, assisted us in preventing [Russian President Vladimir] Putin from occupying our country, and has continued to support us throughout this terrible war,” Zelensky said.
Donald Tusk, Poland
Dear President @JoeBiden. You’ve taken many difficult decisions thanks to which Poland, America and the world are safer, and democracy stronger. I know you were driven by the same motivations when announcing your final decision. Probably the most difficult one in your life.
— Donald Tusk (@donaldtusk) July 21, 2024
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also praised Joe Biden, acknowledging the difficult decisions he made that contributed to the safety and democracy of both Poland and the world. “I know you were driven by the same motivations when announcing your final decision. Probably the most difficult one in your life,” Tusk added.
Keir Starmer, United Kingdom
I respect President Biden’s decision and I look forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency.
I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, he will have made his decision based on what he believes is best for the American people. https://t.co/SCxFFtyl73
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 21, 2024
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed respect for Joe Biden’s decision, noting, “I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, he will have made his decision based on what he believes is best for the American people.”
Olaf Scholz, Germany
My friend @POTUS Joe Biden has achieved a lot: for his country, for Europe, for the world. Thanks to him, 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 respect.
— Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) July 21, 2024
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz paid tribute to his “friend,” praising Biden’s numerous achievements. “Joe Biden has achieved a lot: for his country, for Europe, for the world,” Scholz said. “His decision not to run again deserves respect.”
Acknowledgements from Global Leaders
Yoav Gallant, Israel
Thank you President @JoeBiden, for your unwavering support of Israel over the years. Your steadfast backing, especially during the war, has been invaluable. We are grateful for your leadership and friendship. 🇺🇸🇮🇱
— יואב גלנט – Yoav Gallant (@yoavgallant) July 21, 2024
Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant thanked Joe Biden for his unwavering support of Israel, especially during challenging times. “Your steadfast backing, especially during the war, has been invaluable. We are grateful for your leadership and friendship,” Gallant stated.
Fumio Kishida, Japan
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida recognized Biden’s decision as one made in the best political interest. “The Japan-US alliance is the cornerstone of our country’s diplomacy and security, so we will monitor the situation closely,” Kishida noted.
Anthony Albanese, Australia
Thank you for your leadership and ongoing service President Biden. The Australia-US Alliance has never been stronger with our shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity and climate action for this and future generations. https://t.co/gkAggLguAj
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) July 21, 2024
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese thanked Biden for his leadership and service, highlighting the strong Australia-US alliance and their shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity, and climate action.
Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro praised Biden for his sensible and correct decision, noting, “He prioritized his family, his health and he realized at that age, with failing health, he couldn’t take the reins of his country, much less a presidential candidacy.”
Justin Trudeau, Canada
I’ve known President Biden for years. He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country. As President, he is a partner to Canadians — and a true friend.
To President Biden and the First Lady: thank you. pic.twitter.com/5mQvFn8INn
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 21, 2024
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his gratitude for Joe Biden’s years of service. “He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country. As president, he is a partner to Canadians — and a true friend. To President Biden and the First Lady: thank you,” Trudeau said.
Former President Obama’s Tribute
Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order.
Here’s my full statement: https://t.co/Bs2ZumFXxe
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 21, 2024
Former President Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as vice president for two terms, praised Biden’s record in office. “Internationally, he restored America’s standing in the world, revitalized NATO, and mobilized the world to stand up against Russian aggression in Ukraine,” Obama said. He emphasized that Biden’s decision to drop out of the race was a testament to his “love of country.”
Republican Reactions
While many world leaders paid tribute to Biden’s performance on the global stage, leading Republicans criticized his capacity to remain president. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a top Republican in Congress, stated, “If Joe Biden is not fit to run for president, he is not fit to serve as president. He must resign the office immediately. November 5 cannot arrive soon enough.”
Former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, echoed this sentiment on his Truth Social network, saying, “Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for president, and is certainly not fit to serve.”
Conclusion
President Joe Biden’s decision to step down from the 2024 presidential race has elicited a range of responses from world leaders. While his allies praised his leadership and tough decision-making, his political opponents in the US have used this moment to criticize his fitness for office. As the political landscape shifts, all eyes are now on Vice President Kamala Harris as she steps up as the new Democratic nominee for the upcoming election.