U.S. President Joe Biden vowed to forcefully defend Ukraine against Russia’s invasion at the NATO summit in Washington on Tuesday, using the global stage to assert his leadership amidst domestic and international scrutiny.
Biden, 81, has faced intense criticism about his fitness for office, especially from some Democrats on Capitol Hill and campaign donors concerned about his performance in the upcoming November 5 election. These concerns were heightened following a lackluster debate performance on June 27.
“Putin wants nothing less, nothing less, than Ukraine’s total subjugation… and to wipe Ukraine off the map,” Biden declared, referring to the Russian president in his welcome address to NATO member states. “Ukraine can and will stop Putin.”
The White House aims to use this high-profile policy speech to shift focus from recent controversies. However, some diplomats at the summit believe the damage to Biden’s reputation may be challenging to overcome.
Delivering his speech from a teleprompter with a strong and confident voice, Biden avoided the verbal missteps that marred his debate performance. The setting of the federal hall, where the NATO treaty was originally signed, and the stirring performances by the U.S. Marine Corps band added gravitas to his message.
“Today NATO is stronger than it’s ever been in its history,” Biden proclaimed, highlighting the alliance’s unity and strength.
Biden has dismissed calls to withdraw from his race against Republican Donald Trump, 78, and has vowed to defeat him in the November election. Despite the criticism, he retains the support of most of his party’s elite.
A central theme of Biden’s foreign policy has been the restoration of traditional alliances, contrasting sharply with Trump’s “America First” approach, which often challenged long-standing allies. The outcome of the November election could significantly impact the future of NATO, Europe, and global geopolitics.
Melissa Enoch
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