Biden, in Germany, Urges Unwavering Support for Ukraine

Sidelined at home in the waning days of the campaign to succeed him, President Biden made a brief return to the global spotlight on Friday, rallying allies in support of Ukraine, and basking in praise from the German government.

Mr. Biden made a dash to Berlin that lasted barely a day, in a hastily rescheduled trip that was scuttled last week by Hurricane Milton.

The visit was focused on the war in Ukraine and a renewed push for a cease-fire in Gaza. It placed Mr. Biden in the starring role, championing western resolve against Russia in what he warned would be a “very difficult winter” for Ukraine, while calling Israel’s killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar “an opportunity to seek a path to peace” in the Middle East.

“We should never underestimate the power of democracy, never underestimate the value of alliances,” Mr. Biden said, after a ceremony at the Bellevue Palace in Berlin at which he received Germany’s highest honor. “Germany has taught us all that change is possible, and for better or for worse, countries can and do choose their own destinies.”

Mr. Biden did not announce any shifts in Ukraine or Middle East policy, either after his meeting with Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany or after a larger meeting that included French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

American and German officials expressed optimism that Mr. Sinwar’s death could reinvigorate moribund talks about a cease-fire that Mr. Biden has long sought but not yet achieved, though they offered no hints of progress on that front Friday.