Written By Lisa Murimi
US President Joe Biden welcomed NATO leaders to Washington DC with a powerful speech aimed at reassuring both international allies and domestic audiences that he remains a formidable candidate against Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
In his opening remarks, Biden declared the military alliance “more powerful than ever” as it navigates a “pivotal moment” in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
He emphasized the urgency of supporting Ukraine against autocratic threats, announcing increased military aid for Kyiv.
The US, along with Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Romania, will provide Patriot missile batteries and other air defense systems to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.
In total, NATO plans to deliver five strategic air defense systems and numerous smaller batteries over the next year, according to the White House.
This announcement followed a devastating Russian missile strike on a children’s hospital in Kyiv, resulting in 43 deaths and over a hundred injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently called for enhanced air defenses from Western allies.
“The war will end with Ukraine remaining a free and independent country,” Biden affirmed. “Russia will not prevail. Ukraine will prevail.”
Biden’s speech, delivered clearly and confidently, contrasted sharply with his performance in a recent presidential debate against Trump.
However, internal dissent within the Democratic Party continues to grow, with several members expressing doubts about Biden’s leadership and reelection prospects.
Diplomats at the summit also voiced skepticism about Biden’s future, with one European envoy doubting his ability to lead NATO for another term.
In response, Biden’s team has sought to demonstrate his vitality and capability in managing presidential duties. Biden credited his leadership for NATO’s expansion since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, highlighting the recent inclusion of Finland and Sweden into the alliance.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, attending his first NATO summit, reiterated the UK’s unwavering support for the alliance and condemned Russia’s recent attack on Kyiv.
He stated the importance of NATO’s united stance against Russian aggression.
The summit, held at the venue where the original NATO treaty was signed, also featured Biden awarding NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Meanwhile, Trump, speaking at a rally in Florida, criticized NATO allies for their defense spending, reiterating past demands for increased financial contributions to the alliance.
Ukrainian President Zelensky, in a separate event in Washington, urged American voters to support Ukraine in the upcoming election. The summit continues with key meetings and discussions aimed at strengthening NATO’s collective defense and support for Ukraine.
