Russian President Dmitry Medvedev
“In a Nov. 5 speech, he warned that Russia would move short-range missiles to NATO’s borders to ‘neutralize’ a planned U.S. missile defense system in Eastern Europe if necessary.” He later stated, “I hope that the new president, the new administration will have a desire to discuss this.” Quote Source
“It is expected that fundamental and clear changes will be made in Washington’s foreign and domestic policies, as demanded by all nations and the American people.”
Kenya Baby-Naming Response
“43 children born at the Nyanza Provincial Hospital in Kisumu were named after the Obamas, with 23 boys given the first and middle name Barack Obama and 20 girls named Michelle Obama.” Quote Source
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez
“The historic election of an Afro-descendent to the head of the most powerful nation in the world is the symptom that the epochal change that South America has initiated could be knocking on the door of the United States.” Quote Source
South Korean President Lee Myung-bak
“Lee told CNN he has high expectations for Obama, calling him ‘the right leader at the right time.’ He said any damage done in recent years to U.S. global leadership may be because the country relied too heavily on ‘hard power,’ and that he believes Obama will be effective in utilizing ‘soft power.'” Quote Source
“In the new historic era, I look forward to working together with [Obama] to continuously strengthen dialogue and exchanges between our two countries and enhance our mutual trust and cooperation…” Quote Source
Iraqi People’s Reaction
“‘Iraqis are very relieved that Obama won, but this happiness or relief is accompanied by worry,’ said Ali Adeeb, a lawmaker and a senior member of Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki’s Dawa Party. ‘Because even if Obama calls for early withdrawal, there is still a need to rehabilitate the Iraqi security forces.'” Quote Source
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown
“I know Barack Obama and we share many values… We both have determination to show that government can act to help people fairly through these difficult times facing the global economy.” Quote Source
