No wonder that Ukrainians were most interested in the position of the US presidential candidates on the war in Ukraine in yesterday’s debates. However, both candidates devoted relatively little time to this issue. What can be “extracted” from their comments?
Biden reiterated his old theses, while Trump, not constrained by obligations, once again stated that he would not allow a war. He criticized Biden and Obama for “oversleeping” the beginning of the war, rejecting Putin’s ultimatums, and repeating his lie about “200 billion to Ukraine.” Trump also expressed the opinion that Ukraine will not be able to win.
Trump noted: “Ukraine isn’t going to win this war. They lose a lot of people. And they lose beautiful cities with golden domes. And it’s very sad.”
And although these words sound reassuring, Trump’s overall rhetoric indicates his possible intention to stop military aid to Ukraine in case of victory in the elections.
Biden responds
Joe Biden commented on Trump’s statements: “I’ve never in my life heard so many lies… Poland will follow, Belarus, NATO countries… He doesn’t understand what he’s talking about.” Biden mentioned the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan and American military assistance to Ukraine, but his response was not entirely accurate, which is related to the age of the candidates.
Age factor: why everyone is discussing it
The main advantage of 78-year-old Trump was that he looked energetic, while 81-year-old Biden looked sluggish and unclear. Against his background, Trump, avoiding complex verbal constructions, looked better, much like Zelensky in debates with Poroshenko. Trump openly mocked Biden, emphasizing his incoherent speech.
After the debates, talks about a possible replacement of Biden with another candidate, such as Michelle Obama or California Governor Gavin Newsom, have resurfaced. Bookmakers have increased Newsom’s chances of winning the election to 9%, gave Biden 21%, and Trump 59%.
These quotes indicate that the Democrats are panicking due to the rapid decline in Biden’s ratings and are seeking crisis solutions. It was previously thought that in the event of Biden’s victory, power would transfer to Vice President Kamala Harris, but now this plan looks doubtful.
Conclusions
The debates between Biden and Trump showed that both candidates have serious shortcomings. Trump appeared energetic, but his rhetoric regarding Ukraine is concerning. Biden, while criticizing Trump, looked weak and indecisive, casting doubt on his ability to effectively perform the duties of the president.
