Trump discussed Ukraine, Middle East with Biden in White House meeting

During a White House meeting between President-elect Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, the two leaders engaged in a candid discussion on key global issues, including the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Trump, in an interview described the meeting as “really good,” highlighting that he sought Biden’s views on these critical conflicts.
“I asked for his views and he gave them to me,” Trump shared, emphasizing the importance of understanding Biden’s stance on the situations in both regions. The conversation also extended to the Middle East, with Trump noting, “I wanted to know his views on where we are and what… he thinks. And he gave them to me, he was very gracious.” Reflecting on the tone of their meeting, Trump added that they “really enjoyed seeing each other,” acknowledging the extensive work that had gone into the transition process.
Trump further mentioned that the discussions allowed the two to reconnect, noting that despite the competitive nature of the recent election, the meeting was marked by mutual respect and a focus on the future. “We got to know each other again,” Trump said, signaling the collaborative atmosphere of their conversation.
In terms of the transition, Trump noted that his team and Biden’s team share a “very, very good relationship,” signaling a smooth handover of power. According to White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the two leaders also touched on both foreign and domestic issues, with Trump coming to the meeting with a “detailed set of questions.”
Biden’s National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, briefed the press on the contents of the meeting, revealing that Biden reaffirmed his position on Ukraine. The president emphasized that it is in the U.S. national security interest not to abandon Ukraine, as doing so could risk deeper involvement in the conflict. The message was clear: the U.S. must balance supporting Ukraine while avoiding direct military engagement in the war.
This meeting marks a critical moment in the transition process, as both leaders look ahead to future cooperation and continued dialogue on pressing global challenges.