US President Joe Biden and European leaders are expected to renew calls for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip after Israel confirmed the killing of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar.

Speaking during his farewell visit to Germany, Biden described Sinwar’s death as a “good day,” suggesting it could facilitate a ceasefire and a deal for releasing hostages.

While en route to Germany on Air Force One, Biden noted that Sinwar’s removal was a significant step toward achieving peace in Gaza. Alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Biden is set to reaffirm military support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Biden’s 24-hour visit comes as Ukraine faces another challenging winter of war and follows President Volodymyr Zelensky’s presentation of his “victory plan” to EU and NATO leaders in Brussels. With a US election approaching, concerns are growing about the potential return of Donald Trump, who previously criticized NATO and opposed extensive US military aid to Ukraine.

In Berlin, Biden is expected to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict and the risk of broader escalation involving Iran. He plans to congratulate Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu while also exploring ways to secure hostage releases and end the conflict.

Scholz indicated that the leaders discussed a ceasefire proposal, which Biden and other allies fully support. Biden’s visit, initially scheduled for a longer duration, was condensed due to Hurricane Milton, but he remains focused on strengthening US-German relations, which improved significantly under his administration.

During his visit, Biden will receive Germany’s Grand Cross of the Order of Merit, recognizing his contributions to German-American ties and the transatlantic alliance, especially in the context of Russian aggression against Ukraine.

Zelensky’s NATO membership request and discussions about security guarantees will also be on the agenda, with Macron emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue. The US remains the largest military aid provider to Ukraine, with efforts to ensure long-term support for the country amidst the ongoing conflict.

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