World leaders react as Biden bows out

World leaders have started to react to United States President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election. Several allies have praised his legacy, lauding the courage they said it took to walk away from power. Here are a few of the initial reactions within hours of Sunday’s announcement:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy: “We respect today’s tough but strong decision … . We will always be thankful for President Biden’s leadership. He supported our country during the most dramatic moment in history, assisted us in preventing Putin from occupying our country, and has continued to support us throughout this terrible war.”

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: “I’ve known President Biden for years. He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country. As President, he is a partner to Canadians – and a true friend. To President Biden and the First Lady: thank you.”

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: “Joe Biden has achieved a great deal: 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 recognition.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer: “I respect President Biden’s decision and I look forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency. I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, President Biden will have made his decision based on what he believes is in the best interests of the American people.”

Israeli Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant: “Thank you, President Joe Biden, for your unwavering support of Israel over the years. Your steadfast backing, especially during the war, has been invaluable. We are grateful for your leadership and friendship.”

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez: “All my admiration and recognition for the brave and dignified decision of the president @JoeBiden. Thanks to its determination and leadership, the US overcame the economic crisis after the pandemic and the serious assault on the Capitol and has been exemplary in its support for Ukraine in the face of Putin’s Russian aggression. A great gesture from a great president who has always fought for democracy and freedom.”

Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris: “On behalf of the people and government of Ireland, I … would like to thank you, Mr President, for your global leadership and your friendship as you make your announcement that you will not stand in the 2024 US presidential election.

“Joe Biden, in all the offices he has held, has always been an unwavering voice and passionate worker for peace on the island of Ireland and our country owes him a great debt for this.

“ … On a personal level, President Biden is a proud American with an Irish soul.”

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov: “The elections are still four months away, and that is a long period of time in which a lot can change. We need to be patient and carefully monitor what happens. The priority for us is the special military operation (Ukraine war).”

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere: “I respect President Joe Biden’s decision not to run for re-election. He justifies the decision by saying that he wants to put the country before himself. That reasoning commands respect. Joe Biden has been one of America’s most prominent politicians over several decades, and a president who has carried out several important reforms. I particularly commend him for his leadership in NATO and look forward to working with Biden as the president of the United States until the end of January.”

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk: “Mr. President @JoeBiden, many times you have made difficult decisions that have made Poland, America, and the world safer, and democracy and freedom stronger. I know that you were guided by the same principles when announcing your latest decision. Perhaps the most difficult one in your life.”

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala: “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. I am keeping my fingers crossed for the USA that a good president emerges from the democratic competition of two strong and equal candidates.”