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Biden drops out: European leaders react
Responses by political leaders ranged from respect and gratitude to derision.
World Leaders Attend NATO Summit In Washington, D.C.
Joe Biden is not be seeking re-election as U.S. president. | Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
JULY 21, 2024 11:26 PM CET
BY TOM NICHOLSON
Joe Biden announced on Sunday he would not be seeking re-election as U.S. president in the country’s November election, and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to run in his stead.
European leaders reacted to the news across sites such as Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram.
Their responses fell into three broad categories: those praising Biden for his decision, those using the moment to express confidence in Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, and those who appeared to simply enjoy being online during such an important moment
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on X: “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.”
Polish PM Donald Tusk also praised Biden on X: “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.”
United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he respected Biden’s decision, adding on X: “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.”
Czech PM Petr Fiala tweeted: “It is undoubtedly the decision of a statesman who has served his country for decades. It is a responsible and personally difficult step, but it is all the more valuable. My fingers are crossed for the USA that a good President will emerge from a democratic contest between two strong and equal candidates.”
Aurore Lalucq, an MEP for the Socialists & Democrats group and soon-to-be leader of the Parliament’s Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs, tweeted: “A great president, definitely.”