German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock praised US President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from his re-election campaign, calling it a selfless act that prioritizes national interests.
“I have great respect for the US president’s decision. Joe Biden is putting his country’s interests above his own,” Baerbock said in Brussels, ahead of an EU foreign ministers meeting.
Biden’s announcement on Sunday, which ended weeks of speculation about his fitness for office, leaves the Democratic Party in a state of uncertainty as Republican rival Donald Trump’s campaign gains momentum. Vice President Kamala Harris is now the leading contender for the Democratic nomination.
Baerbock commended Biden’s longstanding efforts to maintain strong transatlantic relations, particularly during his presidency, which has been significantly impacted by Russia’s war in Ukraine. “NATO is stronger than ever before because we have acted and are still acting united and together,” she remarked.
The German Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of US-European cooperation for peace and security in Europe, indicating that European leaders will be closely watching the developments in the US.
“Europe must become stronger, especially in the area of foreign, security, and defence policy,” Baerbock stated.
