Moscow: Russia, engaged in a protracted conflict with Ukraine since February 2022, has responded to Joe Biden’s unexpected decision to withdraw from the 2024 US presidential race, effectively ending his reelection bid.
Under Biden’s leadership, the US has been a staunch ally of Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Ukraine in its ongoing struggle against Vladimir Putin’s Russia. Following Biden’s announcement on Sunday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented that Russia’s focus remains on its priorities rather than the outcome of the 2024 US elections.
Peskov emphasized that winning the conflict against Ukraine is Russia’s foremost priority. “For us, reaching the goals of the special military operation [against Ukraine] is a priority, rather than the outcome of the US elections,” Peskov stated.
Also Read | Russia Mulls Arming Yemeni Rebels as Retaliation for US Support to Ukraine
Peskov reiterated remarks previously made by President Putin, who had earlier expressed a preference for Biden over other candidates, describing him as “an old-school politician” and “more predictable” from Moscow’s perspective.
However, Peskov acknowledged that while Biden’s potential reelection might have been preferable, “the elections are still four months ahead. And it’s a long period, over which many things can change.”
Also Read | Terror Attack on VDC House in Rajouri Thwarted by Indian Army
Biden’s Withdrawal and Its Impact
Biden’s decision to withdraw from the presidential race has sent shockwaves through US politics. This announcement followed a poor debate performance against 2024 Republican candidate Donald Trump on June 27. Although Biden attributed his debate issues to jet lag and international travel, several Democratic lawmakers had urged him to step down.
Dissent within the ruling party has grown, with concerns that Biden’s continued candidacy could jeopardize not only the White House but also Democratic control of Congress in the upcoming elections.
In light of his departure, Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic presidential candidate.
