WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is set to deliver a capstone address on Monday, reflecting on his foreign policy legacy as his term nears its end.
According to the White House, the outgoing president will deliver his speech at the State Department, highlighting the key achievements of his administration in the global arena.
Biden’s address will focus on a range of efforts, including the expansion of NATO, the rallying of allies to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia, and a landmark agreement between Japan and South Korea aimed at strengthening security and economic ties.
A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed these details in advance of the speech.
The choice of the State Department as the venue is symbolic, as Biden also selected it for his first major foreign policy speech in February 2021.
In that initial address, he sought to signal to the international community that the United States was recommitting to its role as a global leader after four years of President Donald Trump’s “America First” policies.
A Legacy of Engagement and Alliances
Throughout his presidency, Biden has emphasized multilateralism and the strengthening of international alliances. His administration has worked to expand NATO’s influence and has provided steadfast military and economic support to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
This support, often framed as a defense of democracy against authoritarian aggression, has been a cornerstone of Biden’s foreign policy.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Biden oversaw a historic rapprochement between Japan and South Korea, fostering deeper cooperation in both security and economic matters. This agreement marked a significant step toward stabilizing a region increasingly marked by tensions with China.
A Stark Contrast to Trump’s Foreign Policy
Biden’s farewell address will also serve as a final argument for his vision of America’s role in the world, as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House.
Trump’s foreign policy stance sharply contrasts with Biden’s, with a focus on reducing U.S. commitments abroad and renegotiating international agreements to prioritize American interests.
Trump has criticized the financial and military support provided to Ukraine, calling it unsustainable.
He has also called for NATO allies to significantly increase their defense spending and hinted at drastic measures, including the potential use of military force to gain control of strategic assets like the Panama Canal and Greenland.
Trump has argued that U.S. control of these locations is vital for national security.
A Farewell to Diplomats
As Biden prepares to leave office, his address will also be a moment to bid farewell to the diplomats and State Department officials who have worked to implement his foreign policy.
His speech will likely underscore the values of diplomacy, alliance-building, and shared responsibility on the global stage.
While the world watches the transition of power in Washington, Biden’s final foreign policy address serves as both a reflection on his administration’s accomplishments and a reminder of the potential shifts in U.S. international relations under the incoming Trump administration.
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