The first presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump on Thursday night has elicited a wide range of reactions globally, with many allies expressing alarm and amusement over Biden's performance, which was perceived as underwhelming by various commentators and officials.
The debate, watched by international audiences from allies to autocratic governments, did little to reassure those concerned about the future direction of U.S. foreign policy. The two candidates presented sharply contrasting views on addressing global challenges, but it was Biden’s perceived frailty that drew the most attention.
A former senior British official, who worked with Biden, expressed shock at the president’s “physical deterioration,” citing his thin appearance, weak voice, and “confused and inarticulate” responses. “I was absolutely horrified by how poorly he performed,” the official said, adding that the prospect of a Trump return is causing allies to prepare for renewed challenges in their relationships with the U.S.
Reactions from Around the World
Hu Xijin, a nationalist Chinese commentator, noted that the debate’s tone was more entertaining than reassuring for Chinese viewers. “Personal attacks, hazy memory, mocking each other... this debate was very entertaining for many Chinese people,” Hu said in a post on X. “Objectively speaking, the low-quality performance of these two old men was a negative advertisement for Western democracy.”
In Europe, the debate has prompted urgent preparations for a possible second Trump administration. “Most people think... the chances of a Trump 2.0 presidency have risen substantially in the last 24 hours. And that really does frighten people,” the former British official said.
Norbert Röttgen, a veteran German lawmaker, emphasized the need for Europe to take responsibility for its own security. “This night will not be forgotten. The Democrats have to rethink their choices now. And Germany must prepare at full speed for an uncertain future,” Röttgen stated.
Domestic and International Media Reactions
The liberal Israeli newspaper Haaretz described the debate as a “sad night for America,” while British tabloid The Sun headlined its website with the word “JOE-MATOSED,” indicating Biden’s lackluster performance.
Robinder Sachdev, president of the Delhi-based Imagindia Institute, noted that Biden’s “low voice, rasping and meandering” failed to convince viewers in India. Former British ambassador to the U.S., Kim Darroch, bluntly stated that it was “very hard to see him winning now” and suggested Biden should withdraw from the race after what he called a “historically bad performance.”
Policy Clashes
During the debate, Biden and Trump clashed on key foreign policy issues. Biden emphasized U.S. global leadership and the importance of alliances, while Trump criticized the current administration’s handling of international conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Israel.
Trump promised to settle the war between Russia and Ukraine before taking office if elected, without detailing his approach. He also criticized the substantial military aid provided to Ukraine, arguing that European countries should contribute more.
Biden, on the other hand, warned against reducing support for Ukraine, suggesting that Putin’s ambitions would not stop at Ukraine. He also defended the U.S.’s support for Israel, countering Trump’s claims that his policies were insufficient.
The debate has heightened concerns about the stability and direction of U.S. foreign policy, with both allies and adversaries closely monitoring the presidential race. As the world reacts to the contentious and often chaotic debate, the implications for international relations and global security remain uncertain.
