President Joe Biden is at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru, facing questions about Donald Trump’s return to power. During a meeting with Japanese and South Korean leaders, Biden avoided addressing reporters’ inquiries about Trump, focusing on strengthening the trilateral partnership instead.
Later, at a meeting with Peru’s president, Biden smiled but refrained from discussing Trump. While Biden hoped his Latin America trip would showcase his foreign policy successes, Trump’s reelection casts a shadow, complicating efforts to reinforce U.S. global alliances.
Biden’s visit to Lima and Rio de Janeiro, part of the G20 summit, is centered on global challenges like the Middle East, Europe, and climate change. He plans to highlight climate action with a visit to the Amazon and meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss mutual concerns.
Despite expressing calm after Trump’s victory, Biden faces global concern over Trump’s influence. The former president’s personnel appointments have left allies uncertain about the direction of U.S. policy, with figures like Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State causing confusion.
Biden’s private meetings with leaders downplayed Trump’s presence, focusing on addressing current issues. Senior officials emphasized that discussions centered on regional cooperation, democracy, and global priorities, without delving into the uncertainties surrounding the future U.S. administration.