In the face of global conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Sudan, President Biden addressed the State Department on Monday, asserting that his administration has effectively fortified international partnerships, enhanced the United States’ global standing, and undermined significant opponents.
When he assumed office four years ago, Biden aimed to restore confidence among global allies and revive foreign treaties that were abandoned during the Trump administration. He rebuilt strong connections with NATO leaders amidst the backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and reincorporated the U.S. into the Paris Climate Agreement. However, tensions are mounting as world leaders brace for considerable shifts with the anticipated inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.
During his remarks, Biden stated, “I come here to the State Department to report to the American people on the progress we’ve made in the last four years in our foreign policy.” He emphasized the pivotal moment the world is experiencing, declaring, “The post-Cold War era is over. A new era has begun.” He believes that through various crises, the U.S. has emerged stronger and that the nation is currently excelling in global competition across various domains.
Biden highlighted the strength of U.S. alliances, asserting, “Today, I can report to the American people, our alliances are stronger than they’ve been in decades.” He pointed out that NATO is currently more capable than ever, with many allies contributing their fair share.
He also underscored that America’s adversaries are not as strong as they were when he took office. Specifically, he noted the failure of Russian President Vladimir Putin to dominate Ukraine and weaken NATO, crediting his administration for rallying support around Ukraine—a central theme in his foreign policy.
Biden stated, “As I saw it, when Putin launched his invasion, I had two jobs — one to rally the world to defend Ukraine, and the other is to avoid war between two nuclear powers.” He believes both objectives have been achieved, maintaining that Ukraine remains a free nation with a hopeful future.
Turning to the situation in Iran, he characterized the nation as weaker than it has been in decades, claiming that its proxy, Hezbollah, is significantly injured and its economy is struggling.
One challenge that has remained for the Biden administration is securing the release of hostages taken by Hamas in Israel, a priority for both the president and his team. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan indicated there may be a potential agreement soon but refrained from making definitive predictions.
In his speech, Biden took a moment to honor the American soldiers who lost their lives during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, insisting he has put an end to the United States’ longest war. He grieved for the 2,461 service members who sacrificed their lives, including 13 who died in an attack during the evacuation as the Taliban rapidly took control.
He also outlined significant challenges awaiting the incoming Trump administration, including the chaotic situation in the Middle East, Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, and instability in the Red Sea.
Biden stated, “Make no mistake, there are serious challenges the United States must continue to deal with, in Ukraine, in the Middle East, in the Indo-Pacific.” He emphasized the necessity of maintaining pressure on various threats while acknowledging that new challenges will arise.
Despite the hurdles, Biden concluded that his administration is handing over a “very strong hand” to the next administration, having left the U.S. with more allies, stronger alliances, and weakened adversaries.
Recently sharing his thoughts with USA Today, Biden reflected on how he has managed to mend relationships that frayed under the Trump administration, positioning himself at a critical juncture in history. He credited his extensive experience in foreign relations for helping navigate significant global changes.
“Having known every major world leader for a long time gives me a unique perspective,” he noted.
As the administration prepares to transition, Sullivan affirmed that Biden will underscore, “America is winning that contest for the future.”
In earlier speeches, Biden sought to intertwine foreign and domestic policies, aiming for a foreign policy that benefits the middle class. However, recent crises in Ukraine and the Middle East have shifted the focus away from his original agenda.
Critics, like historian Stephen Wertheim from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, argue that the U.S. is in a worse geopolitical position now than four years ago, facing increased conflicts in Europe, renewed military actions in the Middle East, and escalating tensions with China.
