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He emphasized that Putin believes Ukraine belongs to Russia, and that assuming the conflict will end by handing over some regions is "just foolish."
Concerns About Future of U.S.-Europe Relations
Biden also expressed deep concern about the future of U.S. relations with European allies, particularly under Trump's current leadership. He warned that a breakdown in these alliances would reshape global history and weaken collective security. According to Biden, many European leaders are now unsure if the U.S. will remain a reliable partner in global affairs.
Reflecting on Stepping Down from 2024 Presidential Race
The former president also addressed his decision to withdraw from the 2024 election, which came less than four months before voting day. He admitted it was a difficult call, influenced by fast-moving events and public concerns following a weak debate performance. Despite the timing, Biden said he believes stepping down was the right move, adding, "We left at a time when we had a good candidate."
Defending His Record on Ukraine
Biden defended how his administration handled the war in Ukraine during his term. Over time, the U.S. adjusted its policies, lifting certain restrictions on weapons and gradually increasing support to Ukrainian forces. "We gave them everything they needed to protect their independence," he said. "We were prepared to respond more aggressively if Putin escalated further."
Controversial Peace Plan from Trump's Team
The current administration's officials have suggested that Ukraine might have to give up some of its territory in order to secure a peace deal. Vice-President JD Vance recently stated that any peace agreement would need to "freeze the territorial lines… close to where they are today." He argued that both sides must make territorial concessions.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed this view, saying that returning to Ukraine's pre-2014 borders is "unrealistic." These comments have sparked backlash, especially from Biden, who condemned the idea as appeasement. He drew historical parallels to the 1930s when territorial concessions failed to prevent broader conflict in Europe.
Trump's Views on Crimea and the Ongoing War
Trump has previously said he expects Russia to keep Crimea, which it annexed in 2014. He also accused Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky of disrupting peace efforts by rejecting suggestions to cede more land. Reports suggest that recent U.S. proposals may include unofficial recognition of Russian control over additional occupied areas in Ukraine, though no official confirmation has been made.
Trump responded to the criticism by saying, "I have no favourites. I want a deal done." Vance supported the view by stating, "Are we going to continue to lose thousands and thousands of soldiers over a few miles of territory this or that way?"
Pressure Mounting on Ukraine from Multiple Sides
The idea of giving up land isn't only coming from foreign governments. Some local leaders in Ukraine have also acknowledged that territorial concessions might eventually be necessary. A prominent city mayor recently admitted that such compromises might be required, at least temporarily, to stop the bloodshed.
However, Biden strongly disagreed with these views. He warned that allowing Putin to seize land by force would only encourage further aggression, especially against neighboring countries in eastern Europe. "I don't understand how people think that letting a dictator take land will satisfy him. It won't," he said. He feared that NATO countries bordering Russia could feel compelled to make similar compromises if Ukraine does.
U.S. vs Europe in Military Spending and Support
Trump has repeatedly criticized European countries for not investing enough in their own defense and relying too heavily on American support. While the U.S. is the largest single donor to Ukraine, data shows that European nations combined have contributed more in total aid. Biden used this to highlight the value of alliances, stating, "There's strength in partnerships. They save us money in the long run."
Criticism Over Trump's Global Ideas
Biden also mocked some of Trump's past and present ideas, such as wanting to take back the Panama Canal, acquire Greenland, or make Canada the 51st state. "What president talks like that?" he asked. "That's not who we are. We're about democracy, freedom, and opportunity — not seizing land."
Biden vs Trump: A Legacy Comparison
Biden contrasted the state of the country when he left office with what's happening now under Trump. He pointed to a growing economy, a rising stock market, and improved global influence during his term. "We were expanding trade and strengthening our position around the world," he said.
Trump, on the other hand, claims he is correcting imbalances in global trade, reducing illegal immigration, and making government more efficient. He recently marked his 100 days in office with a celebratory speech highlighting these reforms.
Asked what he thought of Trump's early record this term, Biden said simply, "I'll let history judge that. I don't see anything that was triumphant."
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