Joe Biden announced this Sunday, July 21, that he was withdrawing from the American presidential race, leaving his post as president in a few months’ time. This decision, taken in the light of uncertainties about his health and his ability to continue in office, has prompted a number of international reactions

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his respect for the decision: “Joe Biden has made this decision in the interests of the American people, as he has always done throughout his remarkable career.”

For his part, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz underlined the achievements of the American president, believing that “his decision to step down deserves respect”. According to Scholz, Biden has made a major contribution to the well-being of his country, Europe and the world.

Tribute to a courageous leader

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk praised Biden’s courage: “His tough decisions have strengthened the security of Poland, America and the whole world, and fortified democracy.” He added that Biden’s final decision was probably the most difficult of his career.

Spanish President Pedro Sanchez also expressed his admiration for the outgoing president: “This is a noble gesture from a great president, who has always fought for democracy and freedom.”

Israel praises Biden’s unwavering support

Israeli President Isaac Herzog thanked Joe Biden for his “unwavering support for the Israeli people”. He stressed that Biden, as the first American president to visit Israel during a time of war, is a symbol of the strong relationship between the two nations.

Biden chose to withdraw late in the campaign, a month before the convention that would have formalized his candidacy. In his statement, he expressed that withdrawing was in the interest of the country and his party, while supporting his vice-president Kamala Harris as a replacement candidate.

Doubts about Biden’s ability to lead the campaign, exacerbated by a mediocre performance in a debate against Donald Trump on June 27, had contributed to the final decision.