Biden Criticizes Trump's Russia Policy as 'Modern-Day Appeasement'

May 7, 2025

In his first public interview since leaving office, former U.S. President Joe Biden delivered a sharp rebuke of Donald Trump's approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, characterizing it as "modern-day appeasement." Speaking to the BBC, Biden warned that pressuring Ukraine to cede territory to Russia would not only embolden Vladimir Putin but also undermine global democratic values.

Biden criticized Trump's administration for advocating a ceasefire plan that would freeze territorial lines, effectively legitimizing Russia's annexation of Ukrainian land. He drew parallels between this strategy and the 1930s appeasement policies toward Nazi Germany, cautioning that such concessions could erode European confidence in American leadership and encourage further Russian aggression.

"Putin views Ukraine as part of 'Mother Russia' and believes he has historical rights to it," Biden stated. "He can't stand the fact that the Soviet Union has collapsed. And anybody who thinks he is going to stop is just foolish."

During his presidency, Biden faced criticism for providing Ukraine with sufficient support to resist invasion but not enough to secure a decisive victory. He defended his administration's actions, emphasizing the need to avoid escalating the conflict into a nuclear confrontation. "We gave them everything they needed to provide for their independence," Biden said. "We were prepared to respond more aggressively if, in fact, Putin moved again."

Biden also addressed the dangers of nuclear rhetoric, condemning Putin's threats to use tactical nuclear weapons as irresponsible. He warned that such threats could lead to catastrophic miscalculations, stating, "This is not a game of roulette."

The former president's remarks come amid concerns over the Trump administration's foreign policy direction, including proposals to annex territories like Greenland and the Panama Canal. Biden expressed alarm over these expansionist ideas, suggesting they reflect a broader disregard for international norms and alliances.

Biden's interview underscores the ongoing debate over the U.S.'s role in supporting Ukraine and countering Russian aggression. His critique of Trump's policies highlights the importance of maintaining a firm stance against authoritarianism and upholding democratic principles on the global stage.