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President Joe Biden has decided to stay in the United States this week as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida. This decision comes after he canceled planned visits to Germany and Angola.

Speaking during a hurricane briefing on Tuesday, Biden emphasized the importance of his presence in the country while the storm threatens potentially catastrophic impacts. “As you know, I put out a statement this morning. I'm canceling my trip to Germany and Africa," Biden informed reporters. He added that there would be "plenty of time to talk about Angola" and that he intends to visit Africa at a later date. Discussions are also ongoing with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to possibly reschedule the state visit to Berlin.

Biden's team had been closely watching the storm's developments as the trip approached, assessing whether a cancellation was necessary. With the election drawing near, the administration is aware of the political ramifications of the hurricane response, especially with critiques already surfacing regarding their handling of the recent Hurricane Helene.

The decision to cancel has left the rescheduling of these international visits up in the air. This week’s agenda in Germany included Biden’s first state visit to Berlin as president, followed by a significant summit with European leaders to discuss support for Ukraine. Biden had plans to meet with leaders such as German Chancellor Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Additionally, several NATO leaders were set to attend a gathering focused on sustaining aid to Kyiv amid uncertain progress in the ongoing war.

False claims, notably from former President Donald Trump, have surfaced regarding the administration's handling of Hurricane Helene, and Biden's absence from storm-affected regions. Amid these political tensions, the decision to stay put was partially influenced by concerns over optics and the administration’s image in storm recovery efforts.

Earlier communications had indicated that the trip might proceed, but the increasingly dire forecasts for Hurricane Milton’s impact made the decision straightforward. Officials highlighted that Biden’s main focus must be on preparedness and recovery, especially in regions still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene.

Jean-Pierre, a senior White House official, underscored the critical period following a storm, implying that the administration’s performance would be under close scrutiny in the coming days and weeks. With only a few months left in Biden’s presidency, rescheduling these important diplomatic trips may prove challenging, but the priority remains clear—handling the immediate crisis at home.