‘It's your people that matter the most,’ Biden’s emotional UN farewell pleads for democracy
United Nations: On Tuesday, President Joe Biden delivered a sombre farewell address at the United Nations, reflecting on his decision to withdraw from the US presidential race and warning about the dangers posed by authoritarian leaders around the world.
"My fellow leaders, let us never forget -- some things are more important than staying in power," Biden said to applause in his final speech at the UN General Assembly in New York.
The 81-year-old urged world leaders to defend democracy amid increasing chaos and conflict, stressing the need for continued support for Ukraine and calling for peace in the Middle East. With just six weeks until the election that could see Donald Trump, who questions the legitimacy of elections, return to power, Biden's speech carried significant weight.
He said that over the summer he faced a "difficult decision" about whether to seek a second term. "Being president has been the honour of my life, there's so much more I want to get done," Biden said.
"As much as I love the job, I love my country more. I decided after 50 years of public service it's time for a new generation of leadership to take my nation forward." Biden then added to the assembled leaders: "It's your people that matter the most."
He stepped back from the presidential race in July after a challenging debate with Trump raised concerns about his mental sharpness. Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
As the November 5 election approaches, many are watching closely to see if Trump's "America First" approach will make a comeback. Biden's address aimed to strengthen his legacy and encourage other leaders to protect democratic values against a possible Trump resurgence.
Biden said he'd seen a "remarkable sweep of history" during five decades of public service and, as the world reels from a series of crises, "things can get better, we should never forget that."
He emphasised the importance of US alliances, which Trump has often criticised. Reflecting on the chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, Biden shared that he remembers the American troops lost during the pull-out "every single day."
However, Biden's speech lacked specific solutions for pressing foreign policy challenges. He cautioned against a "full-scale war" in Lebanon, following recent Israeli strikes that resulted in numerous casualties, but did not provide a plan to prevent escalation. The goal of a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict seems more distant than ever.
On Ukraine, Biden was clear, stating, "Putin's war has failed" and urged allies not to become weary in their support for Kyiv. He is set to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who attended the speech, for discussions at the White House on Thursday.
In contrast, Trump told supporters at a rally that America is "stuck in that war" and promised to withdraw if he returns to the presidency.
After his address, Biden met with several world leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, at an event focused on drug issues. He concluded the day with criticism of Trump during a speech on US climate policy, stating that the former president "moved the world backwards" while in office.
"And by the way, windmills do not cause cancer," Biden added with a smile, mocking the Republican's opposition to wind power.
Agency