Biden expressed concerns over US-Europe relations and defended his own administration's support for Ukraine.
**Biden Critiques Trump's Russia Policy as "Modern-Day Appeasement" During BBC Interview**
**Biden Critiques Trump's Russia Policy as "Modern-Day Appeasement" During BBC Interview**
In a recent BBC interview, former President Biden condemned Trump's approach to Ukraine as appeasement towards Russia.
In his first interview since leaving the White House, Joe Biden addressed various pressing issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the legacy of Donald Trump's administration. Speaking with the BBC, Biden labeled Trump’s pressure on Ukraine to cede territory to Russia as "modern-day appeasement." This assertion echoed historical references to British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain's attempts to placate Adolf Hitler before World War II.
Biden expressed strong concern over Trump's tactics, stating that Vladimir Putin fundamentally views Ukraine as a part of Russia and warned that conceding any territory would not quell Putin's ambitions. "Anyone who thinks he will stop with just a peace deal is simply mistaken," Biden added.
With the backdrop of Allied nations commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Biden reflected on what he perceives as a potential deterioration of US-European relations under Trump's leadership, indicating that the world could see significant historical shifts if the United States veered away from its alliances.
The interview also touched on Biden’s own political journey, including his decision to exit the 2024 presidential race, a move prompted by a subpar debate performance. He maintained that while it was a tough call, he stands by the timing of his departure.
Conversely, Biden criticized suggestions from Trump's administration, notably by current Vice-President JD Vance, advocating for Ukraine to relinquish portions of its territory in exchange for peace. Biden emphasized the importance of not undermining America's credibility in NATO, expressing fear that European nations may consider accommodating Putin if Ukraine were to concede land.
The former president also rebuffed Trump's buoyant rhetoric regarding reclaiming sovereignty over territories like the Panama Canal or Greenland, stating unequivocally, "That's not who we are."
As Biden continued to defend the military support provided to Ukraine during his tenure, he remarked, "We provided everything they needed for independence. We were set to respond if Putin moved again." In light of increasing criticism over the pace and scope of US aid, he emphasized the necessity of supporting allies without compromising on fundamental principles of freedom and democracy.
Despite Trump’s claims of intending to end bloodshed and reshape US foreign relations, Biden expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of such strategies. The former president suggested that the current level of military assistance could be curtailed, citing other countries’ roles in defense spending, questioning the overall strength derived from such alliances.
Biden's interview culminated with a critique of Trump's initial hundred days in office, contrasting the economic trajectory under his administration with the reversal seen since the transition of power. Concluding, Biden stated, "I’ll let history judge that," reflecting on the implications of Trump 2.0 on the global stage.
