### Biden's Quiet Farewell: Transition Overshadowed by Trump's Ascendancy

President Joe Biden's final days on the international scene concluded not with fireworks but with a quiet fade, as concerns over the incoming Trump administration loomed. His recent tour of South America, initially intended to underline his foreign policy achievements, was overshadowed by the world’s curiosity and unease regarding Trump’s controversial Cabinet picks.

During summits in Peru and Brazil, delegates discreetly discussed the incoming U.S. administration, seeking hints on future developments. Biden offered few reassurances, recognizing that many seemed more focused on understanding Trump's approach. Despite this, he aimed to emphasize the accomplishments his administration fears could be undone once Trump takes office.

Biden’s speeches on his tour were notably succinct, with his longest address, a seven-minute statement from the Amazon rainforest, focusing on climate achievements. His final message to G20 leaders was a sobering reminder of their responsibilities on climate change. Yet, he chose not to dwell on the inevitable shifts in U.S. climate policy come January. "And I'm not going to say anymore. I have much more to say, but I'm not going to," Biden concluded, as he emphasized the urgency of addressing climate issues.

Accompanied by his daughter and granddaughter, Biden showed little outward nostalgia as he bid farewell to fellow leaders. He reflected briefly on his long-standing relationship with China's Xi Jinping, even as Xi subtly shifted focus to the forthcoming Trump administration, urging a wise choice in diplomatic relations.

A logistical mix-up during a photo opportunity further highlighted Biden’s diminishing prominence. As global leaders like Xi, Narendra Modi of India, and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Turkey posed for photos, Biden was still in discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, missing from the group picture. This incident, though small, underscored the world's pivot towards Trump’s future leadership.

Trump’s looming presidency already sees foreign leaders vying for his attention, evidenced by recent invites and congratulatory gestures. Erdoğan extended an invite for an imminent visit, while Indonesia's president expressed eagerness to meet Trump in person. Further emphasizing this shift, Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, met Trump at a black-tie dinner at Mar-a-Lago, celebrating with a dance to "YMCA."

Biden's team has largely refrained from commenting on Trump's Cabinet choices, despite global concerns over selections like former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard for overseeing intelligence agencies and Pete Hegseth for the Pentagon. "The incoming administration is not in the business of providing us assurances about anything," stated Jake Sullivan, Biden’s national security adviser, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding Trump's plans.

In the Amazon, Biden maintained a hopeful tone, urging the continuation of climate initiatives. "Nobody can reverse it. Nobody," he firmly stated, yet declined further comment or questions. This trip marked a departure from his usual practice of engaging with the press, underscoring the end of an era as the global stage prepares for a new American leadership.