Washington: U.S. President-elect Donald Trump met with President Joe Biden at the White House on Wednesday to discuss pressing international issues, including Ukraine and the Middle East. The meeting, intended to showcase a smooth transfer of power, unfolded in a cordial tone despite longstanding policy differences between the two.
In a rare moment of unity, the two leaders were seated beside each other in the Oval Office, the warmth of a crackling fireplace contrasting with the years of tension between them. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre remarked on the atmosphere, stating, “They discussed important national security and domestic policy issues facing the nation and the world. It was indeed very cordial, very gracious, and substantive.” The meeting lasted nearly two hours.
President Biden advocated for continued U.S. support for Ukraine, emphasizing that a stable Europe aligns with American national security interests. “A strong and stable Europe helps keep America out of direct conflict,” White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters after the meeting.
Meanwhile, Trump reiterated his commitment to ending the Russia-Ukraine war quickly, though he stopped short of detailing his strategy. He shared with The New York Post that the conversation included extensive discussion about the Middle East. “I wanted to know his views on where we are,” Trump said of Biden’s input. “And he gave them to me, he was very gracious.”
A Smooth Transition
Both leaders acknowledged the importance of a seamless transition. Biden extended a warm welcome, saying, “Looking forward to having a smooth transition… everything you need, we’ll ensure it’s there. Welcome, welcome back.”
Trump, poised to assume office on January 20, expressed his gratitude: “Politics is tough, and in many cases not a very nice world, but it is a nice world today, and I appreciate it very much – a transition that’s as smooth as it can get. And I very much appreciate that, Joe.”
While reporters attempted to ask questions, they were quickly escorted out, marking a contrast from the last transition in 2020, where Trump did not extend the same courtesy when Biden won.
A History of Rivalry
The two have had a history of harsh criticisms and public rebukes. Biden, a Democrat, frequently depicted Trump as a risk to democracy, while Trump, a Republican, has questioned Biden’s competence. Their differing perspectives extend across key policies, including climate change, trade, and relations with Russia.
During the meeting, Biden also pushed for Congress to address key priorities in its final session, notably government funding and disaster relief. Both Biden’s Chief of Staff Jeff Zients and Trump’s Chief of Staff Susie Wiles were present, adding weight to the dialogue.
First Lady Jill Biden joined her husband in welcoming Trump, presenting him with a handwritten letter for his wife, Melania Trump, and assuring him of her team’s assistance with the transition. Melania Trump, however, did not attend, though her office shared a statement on X, saying she is “encouraged” by her husband’s reentry into office.
Celebration and Legislative Gains
Earlier in the day, Trump celebrated his recent victory with members of the Republican-led House of Representatives. “Isn’t it nice to win? It’s always nice to win,” Trump told supporters, reflecting on the newly projected GOP majority in the House, which now grants his party control of both chambers.
Also Read | Visa Confirms EU Probe Into Retailer Fees, Cooperation with Regulators
Elon Musk, the tech entrepreneur, also joined Trump for discussions with Republican lawmakers, underscoring Trump’s support from high-profile business leaders.
Transition Delays
Despite the outward show of unity, the transition has encountered administrative obstacles. Trump’s team, while naming some cabinet members, has not finalized agreements for office space and access to government facilities, which are typically standard in a transition. Brian Vance, a spokesperson for Trump’s transition team, noted ongoing negotiations with the Biden administration lawyers under the Presidential Transition Act.
Also Read | Over 800 Million Adults Have Diabetes Globally, Majority Untreated, Study Finds
Valerie Smith Boyd, director of the Partnership for Public Service’s Center for Presidential Transition, pointed out that agreements must be signed to facilitate coordination with federal agencies, emphasizing that “Everything is hinging on that.”
Wednesday’s meeting marked the first extended dialogue between Trump and Biden since their heated debate in June. The two had a brief interaction during a 9/11 memorial event in New York but have largely remained publicly at odds until now.
