**Biden and Trump Share Handshake in Display of Unity Amid Political Transition**

In a gesture of tradition and unity, President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump met in the Oval Office, marking the end of a contentious election cycle. This face-to-face meeting symbolized an effort to bring the nation together after the election, a practice that was notably skipped in 2020 when Trump did not concede to then President-elect Biden.

Trump, arriving a few minutes behind schedule, joined Biden for a brief public handshake accompanied by words of encouragement for a smooth transition. Biden, 81, expressed his commitment to ensuring the transition would go as smoothly as possible, welcoming Trump back into the White House. "Mr President-elect and former president, Donald, congratulations. I'm looking forward to having a smooth transition," Biden said.

Trump reciprocated the sentiment, acknowledging the often harsh nature of politics but appreciating the efforts for a smooth transition. "Politics is tough and it's in many cases... not a nice world but it is a nice world today and I appreciate very much a transition that's so smooth," said Trump, 78.

During their two-hour private meeting, Biden emphasized the critical importance of ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression, reflecting concerns about Trump's potential foreign policy direction. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan relayed that Biden viewed U.S. support for Ukraine as vital to national security.

Additionally, the Biden administration opened the door to collaboration with Trump's incoming team, particularly in efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. This willingness to cooperate underscores a broader aim for continuity in addressing pressing international issues.

Notably, this meeting stands in contrast to the 2020 election cycle when such a transitional meeting did not occur due to Trump's refusal to concede. The last occurrence of this tradition was in 2016 when then-President Obama welcomed Trump to the White House post-election, a meeting that focused on issues like North Korea.

First Lady Jill Biden was present to greet Trump and delivered a handwritten note to Melania Trump, offering congratulations and support for the incoming first lady, despite Melania's absence. This gesture mirrored the 2016 meeting where Michelle Obama also participated in the transitional discourse.

Earlier in the day, Trump addressed Republican House members, reinforcing his support for Mike Johnson to return as House speaker and previewing plans for a significant deportation policy. The meeting, held near the Capitol, highlighted the party's recent election successes and Trump's influence among House Republicans.

Elon Musk, appointed by Trump to co-lead the new Department of Government Efficiency, received significant attention and praise during Trump's address, although he did not attend the meeting with Biden. Instead, Trump was accompanied by Susie Wiles, his upcoming chief of staff. In Senate leadership decisions, despite Musk’s support for Rick Scott, John Thune emerged as the new Senate majority leader, succeeding Mitch McConnell.

Amid these developments, Biden is preparing for a critical international engagement with China's President Xi Jinping at an upcoming summit in Peru, underscoring the ongoing importance of global diplomacy during the transition period.