Context:

Former President Joe Biden condemned President Donald Trump's suggestion that Ukraine should consider ceding territory for peace, likening it to historical appeasement policies. He criticized Trump for his treatment of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and expressed concern over Trump's comments about acquiring territories such as Panama, Greenland, and Canada. Biden, reflecting on his presidency, highlighted his efforts to support Ukraine against Russian aggression and questioned Trump's commitment to democracy. He also voiced concern about the global perception of the U.S. under Trump's leadership and suggested that the Republican Party is beginning to recognize Trump's true nature. Biden defended his decision to leave the 2024 campaign, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to the next generation of leaders and expressing pride in his administration's accomplishments in Ukraine support and democratic values.

Dive Deeper:

• Joe Biden criticized Donald Trump for proposing that Ukraine should give up territory to Russia for peace, drawing parallels to Neville Chamberlain's appeasement of Hitler in the 1930s. Biden finds it unacceptable for a dictator to seize and be satisfied with land that is not rightfully theirs, referencing Vladimir Putin's actions.

• Biden condemned Trump's behavior towards Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a tense Oval Office meeting and questioned Trump's intentions regarding territories like Panama, Greenland, and Canada. He emphasized that such discussions are not representative of American values centered on freedom and democracy.

• Biden expressed concerns that democracy faces greater threats now than at any time since World War II, pointing out European leaders' uncertainties about relying on the United States. He criticized Trump's presidential conduct, suggesting it resembles a monarchy rather than a democracy.

• Reflecting on his presidency, Biden highlighted his administration's significant support for Ukraine, including $65 billion in aid and strategic military assistance. He suggested that Trump's presidency poses risks to ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine and questioned Trump's first 100 days in office as lacking triumph.

• Biden reiterated his belief that the Republican Party is becoming aware of Trump's true intentions, which eases his worries about domestic democracy. He also defended his decision to exit the 2024 campaign, emphasizing the successful implementation of his administration's agenda and the importance of transitioning leadership to a new generation.

• During his interview with the BBC, Biden criticized the Trump administration's impact in its early days, particularly regarding damage to the Social Security Administration. This interview coincided with the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, marking a historical context for Biden's remarks.

• Biden has remained mostly out of the public eye since leaving office, focusing on his legacy and the future of democratic governance. He continues to advocate for freedom and democracy, contrasting with what he perceives as Trump's destructive and regressive policies.