President Joe Biden's one-term presidency has been marked by a focus on repairing strained alliances and restoring American credibility on the world stage. Despite facing significant challenges, Biden believes his administration has made strides in positioning the U.S. as an indispensable global partner.
One of the early setbacks of Biden's presidency was the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, which culminated in the collapse of the U.S.-backed Afghan government. The President fulfilled a campaign promise to end America's longest war but faced criticism for the manner in which it concluded.
In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Biden rallied allies to provide significant military and economic assistance to Ukraine. However, he faced scrutiny for being cautious in providing certain advanced weaponry to Ukrainian forces, fearing escalation with Russia.
In the Middle East, Biden stood by Israel during its conflict with Hamas, which led to devastation in Gaza. The administration's support for Israel has strained relations with pro-Palestinian activists, who have called for an arms embargo against Israel.
As Biden prepares to leave office, his foreign policy legacy remains uncertain, with the looming possibility of a return to a protectionist worldview under former President Donald Trump. The future of key international issues, such as the Ukraine war and the Middle East conflict, may be shaped by the incoming administration's approach.
Despite the challenges and criticisms, Biden's administration argues that it provided a steady hand in navigating complex global crises and leaving the U.S. and its allies in a stronger position. The President's address on his foreign policy legacy will aim to highlight these achievements and the importance of continued American engagement on the world stage.
