Biden Calls Trump’s Ukraine Policy ‘Modern-Day Appeasement’ in Candid Interview

WILMINGTON, Delaware — In his first interview since leaving the White House, former President Joe Biden criticized the foreign policy of Donald Trump, describing it as “modern-day appeasement” towards Russia.

Speaking to the BBC on Monday, Biden expressed concern over the Trump administration’s approach to Ukraine, stating that it undermines the United States’ historical commitment to its allies in Europe. He said Russian President Vladimir Putin views Ukraine as part of Russia and warned against any belief that conceding territory would satisfy him.

Biden’s interview coincided with the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, highlighting the significance of transatlantic alliances that have secured peace for decades. He lamented the potential breakdown of U.S.-European relations under Trump’s leadership, saying it could reshape modern history.

The former president also addressed his own decision to drop from the 2024 race, stating, “I think it was the right decision. It was a hard choice, but we had a solid candidate ready to take my place.” He defended the timing of his exit from the race, asserting it was a necessary step considering the rapid developments in U.S. politics.

Biden took particular issue with Trump’s suggestions about territorial negotiations with Ukraine, criticizing the idea that the country should relinquish land to Russia to achieve peace. “What president ever talks like that?” he questioned. “We’re about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation.”

His comments come amid accusations that his administration has not fully supported Ukraine against Russian aggression. When questioned, Biden firmly stated that he ensured Ukraine had the resources needed to defend itself, but he also emphasized the need to avoid escalating tensions to a nuclear conflict.

As Trump and his supporters tout a more isolationist stance, Biden urged for the United States to maintain its leadership role in international alliances, warning that doubts about American reliability could lead other nations to reconsider their ties with the U.S.

Concerning NATO, Biden declared the alliance’s mutual defense commitment a “sacred obligation,” while expressing fears that recent rhetoric from the Trump administration may shake the confidence of U.S. allies. “I fear that our allies are doubting whether we will be as steadfast as we’ve always been,” he said.

The former president’s remarks reflect a broader concern about the erosion of democratic values worldwide, underscoring his belief that democracy must be defended in every generation.

Biden concluded by challenging Americans to rethink their values in light of contemporary global dynamics, emphasizing, “Every generation has to fight to maintain democracy.”