Context:

In his first major interview since leaving the White House, Joe Biden reflected on his legacy, foreign policy, and his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. He expressed regret over the timing of his withdrawal, noting that it left Kamala Harris with little preparation time, potentially aiding Trump's return to power. Biden criticized Trump's foreign policy, particularly the suggestion that Ukraine should cede territory to Russia, likening it to 'modern-day appeasement'. He warned of the risks to the US-Europe alliance under Trump's leadership, highlighting the potential dissolution of NATO as a significant threat. Lastly, while Biden took a measured view of Trump's first 100 days, he remained hopeful that Republican opposition might eventually curtail Trump's more extreme policies.

Dive Deeper:

• Biden's decision to exit the 2024 presidential race was marked by difficulty and regret, as it left Kamala Harris with little time to prepare, contributing to Trump's electoral success despite Democratic financial advantages.

• He criticized Trump's suggestion of a peace deal that would require Ukraine to cede territory to Russia, describing it as 'modern-day appeasement' and drawing parallels to historical European concessions to dictators.

• Biden expressed concern over the US-Europe alliance under Trump, particularly the threat to NATO's foundational principles, warning that a breakdown could alter global history significantly.

• He underscored the importance of American leadership in global affairs, countering the notion that the US should adopt a more isolationist stance, which some in Trump's circle advocate.

• Biden highlighted the importance of decorum in international relations, criticizing Trump's confrontational approaches and territorial ambitions as contrary to American values of freedom and democracy.

• Regarding Trump's early presidency, Biden took a cautious stance, suggesting that while some Democrats push for stronger opposition, he believes Republican restraint might prevent Trump from undermining democratic institutions.

• Biden's hopes for a bipartisan 'epiphany' following Trump's presidency have yet to materialize, as political divisions remain entrenched, challenging his earlier predictions of cooperation across party lines.