PARIS (AP) — President Joe Biden will conclude his visit to France by paying his respects at an American military cemetery that Donald Trump notably avoided during his presidency, emphasizing the significance of the November election during his final stop on Sunday.
It’s a fitting end to five days where Trump’s presence was felt without being mentioned. While the trip commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day and celebrated the alliance between the United States and France, it also highlighted the contrasting global visions of Biden and Trump in the upcoming election.
Each mention of the transatlantic partnership served as a reminder of Trump’s potential to disrupt those relationships. References to democracy were juxtaposed with Trump’s efforts to challenge the election results. Calls to support Ukraine against Russia reflected a departure from Trump’s reluctance to provide aid.
Although Biden’s messages on democracy and autocracy were well-received in Europe, where concerns about a return to Trump’s leadership persist, the impact on American voters remains uncertain as Biden’s campaign works to connect these themes with everyday issues.
The visit will end with Biden honoring America’s fallen soldiers at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, underscoring the contrast with Trump, who chose not to visit the cemetery during a 2018 trip to France.
During that trip, Trump’s decision to skip the visit was attributed to weather, but reports later suggested that he refused to go because he referred to the deceased soldiers as “suckers” and “losers,” a claim he denies. Biden has used Trump’s alleged remarks in his campaign speeches, condemning such disrespect towards American heroes.
Former Marine officer Maura Sullivan praised Biden’s visit for setting an example of presidential duty and allowing voters to draw their own conclusions.
The emotional trip included visits with World War II veterans and a poignant ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery, where Biden reflected on the sacrifices made by American soldiers during the war.
By following in the footsteps of past leaders like Reagan, Biden made appeals to traditional conservatives who may be disillusioned by Trump’s approach to global affairs. Biden’s message highlighted the importance of protecting democracy and defending American values.
Biden’s trip also included a state visit hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, symbolizing the enduring alliance between the two nations.
Overall, Biden’s visit to France showcased a contrast in diplomatic styles compared to other foreign trips, with a slower pace and focus on symbolic gestures of unity and respect.
Associated Press writer Sylvie Corbet contributed to this report.
