**Biden Reflects on Trump's Presidency: A Stark Warning for Democracy**

Biden emphasizes the importance of the Atlantic Alliance and expresses concerns over Trump's rhetoric and policies, which he believes could undermine decades of U.S. leadership in promoting freedom and democracy globally.

In a candid discussion on the Today programme, Joe Biden shared his reflections on Donald Trump’s presidency, marking a significant departure from the traditional silence upheld by former leaders. Since leaving office, Biden has observed Trump's early days in power with a mix of disbelief and concern, particularly around the implications for U.S. international relations and alliances.

Within just 100 days, Trump has frequently invoked Biden's name, using it as a political tool to redirect attention during his administration. Trump has taken credit for financial gains in the stock market but shifts blame to Biden when faced with downturns. Reflecting on his time in office, Biden expressed frustration over Trump's disregard for alliances, particularly criticizing some of Trump's comments regarding allies like Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Russia.

Biden remarked, "What president ever talks like that? That's not who we are," emphasizing the importance of democracy and international cooperation. His deep-rooted belief in the Atlantic Alliance's role in sustaining global peace and democratic values was palpable during the interview. He highlighted a “sacred obligation” within NATO to defend its members, providing a stark contrast to Trump's perceived hostility towards allies.

Discussing recent memorials and the spirit of unity following World War II, Biden conveyed worries about American leadership's diminishing influence. “I fear that our allies around the world are going to begin to doubt whether we're going to stay where we've always been for the last 80 years,” he stated, underscoring a potential shift in global standing due to Trump's approach.

While Biden's own advanced age has brought scrutiny, he remains driven by the same motivations that prompted his entry into politics: advocating for justice and defending democratic ideals. He urged that the current political climate is rife with challenges to these ideals, remarking, “every generation has to fight for democracy.”

Furthermore, Biden conveyed his belief in the urgency of maintaining the alliance against authoritarian threats, particularly from figures like Vladimir Putin. Notably, he distinguished between his administration's strategy in Ukraine, providing military support, and Trump's suggestion that Ukraine consider ceding territory to Russia, warning that such appeasement is perilous.

Biden concluded the interview by reaffirming the need for resilience in protecting democracy and engaging with international partners to face emerging global challenges. He cautioned that neglect in this area could lead to a world with diminished commitment to freedom and justice, emphasizing the necessity of continued vigilance in upholding democratic values.