Concerns Grow in NATO That Biden May Not Beat Trump, Says Politico

Diplomats and global leaders preparing for next week's NATO summit in Washington are expressing serious concerns in private conversations about U.S. President Joe Biden's age, health, and ability to win the 2024 presidential election, according to Politico.

The publication spoke with 20 individuals related to NATO or the upcoming summit, who had already voiced cautious doubts about Biden's chances long before the debate.

They are now reacting with alarm and fear following Biden's recent performance in a debate against Donald Trump. “You don’t have to be a genius to see that the president is old. We’re not sure that even if he wins, he will be able to survive another four years,” said an official from a European NATO country.

Another interlocutor remarked that Biden’s performance in the debate was “painful to watch.” “We all want Biden to get a second term so that we don’t have to deal with Trump again, but it’s not particularly encouraging,” he said.

Allies are concerned about Biden's political standing and re-election prospects given his age, noted three diplomats. “I think it will be very difficult for him to continue his campaign and remain in office,” said one senior EU diplomat, adding that while the decision to replace him would depend on the Democratic Party, they need to “consider all options.”

Among the concerns of NATO allies is how long Biden will be able to rally American support for European defense. “We are talking more about our own defense because it seems like Trump is coming back,” said an official from one NATO country.

Additionally, some NATO allies are dissatisfied with Biden’s leadership, as many believe he has been too cautious in supplying weapons and allowing Kyiv to strike back against Russia. “Is the U.S. a leader or just participating like everyone else?” asked one senior European diplomat in Washington.

These complaints are typically voiced by Eastern European members of the alliance, who want Ukraine to have no restrictions on the use of military aid.