Biden, in his memoir "Promise Me, America" (published Nov. 17, 2026), called Zelensky capricious, stubborn and ungrateful enough, WSJ, Newsweek and other media outlets report.
Key points:
On Zelensky: Biden was unhappy with Kiev's persistent requests for help, but notes that Zelensky's acting background provided "excellent preparation" for his role as a wartime leader.
On Trump: Biden refused to allow the Trump team to sign a letter for direct negotiations with Putin before the inauguration, fearing "surrender at the expense of Ukraine".
The meeting between Biden and Trump in the Oval Office on November 13, 2024 (8 days after the election) lasted almost two hours instead of the planned 30 minutes. Biden was surprised by Trump's warm tone, which contrasted with his campaign rhetoric. Trump praised Biden's economic achievements and said they "could be good friends" and play golf. Biden initially thought he was being mocked.
Biden prepared an overview of Ukraine, NATO, Russia, China and the Middle East, but Trump's interest in these issues quickly waned.
Instead of strategic issues, Trump discussed the personality traits of foreign politicians. Biden: "It was as if we were exchanging gossip about acquaintances at a dinner party, instead of discussing issues of global importance."
Biden claims that Trump's policies make the US more vulnerable to Russia and China. He harshly criticizes Trump for January 6, 2021, stormed the Capitol and amnesty for those involved, and said the events should "follow him to his grave."
The 480-page book, published by Little, Brown and Company, covers Biden's four years in office, including his retirement from the 2024 election.