WASHINGTON 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Sunday that he respects US President Joe Biden's decision not to seek reelection and thanked him for his support for Kyiv.

"Many strong decisions have been made in recent years, and they will be remembered as bold steps taken by President Biden in response to challenging times. And we respect today's tough but strong decision," Zelenskyy said on X.

His remarks came after Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race and his endorsement of his vice president, Kamala Harris, to become the Democratic presidential nominee.

"Ukraine is grateful to President Biden for his unwavering support for Ukraine's fight for freedom, which, along with strong bipartisan support in the United States, has been and continues to be critical," Zelenskyy said.

Biden supported Ukraine during "the most dramatic moment in history, and assisted Kyiv in preventing Russian President Vladimir Putin "from occupying our country," he added.

Biden's candidacy has been in the spotlight following his dismal performance against former President Donald Trump in a presidential debate late last month.

Facing mounting pressure, Biden, 81, said in a letter that it has been "the greatest honor" of his life to serve as president,

“And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term," he added.