Biden Leaves Trump a Strong Foreign Policy Position, Defends Afghanistan Withdrawal “`

In a State Department address on U.S. foreign policy and national security, President Biden highlighted his administration’s accomplishments as his term concludes. While not explicitly mentioning President-elect Trump, Biden asserted that he is leaving a strong foundation for the incoming administration.

Biden reviewed key geopolitical relationships, acknowledging the controversial withdrawal from Afghanistan, which resulted in American and Afghan civilian casualties. He defended this decision, stating he ended a prolonged war and brought troops home, contradicting claims that it would harm alliances or increase domestic threats.

“I am the first president in decades who’s not leaving a war in Afghanistan to his successor,” Biden said, adding that he assessed that a large American military presence was no longer necessary upon taking office. He maintained that U.S. alliances remain strong, and over-the-horizon capabilities effectively address threats.

The president emphasized that the withdrawal allowed the U.S. to concentrate on challenges posed by Russia and China. He urged the incoming administration to continue supporting Ukraine, stressing the global implications of Russia’s actions. Biden cited a significant increase in defense spending under his tenure, exceeding Cold War levels, as a means of deterring conflict.

Regarding China, Biden pointed to its economic projections, claiming that his administration prevented its economic surpassing of the United States. However, he cautioned against complacency, emphasizing the critical need to counter China’s dominance in clean energy.

Biden expressed sharp criticism toward the incoming administration’s perceived skepticism about climate change, calling it a grave threat and urging the U.S. to lead in the clean energy transition to avoid dependence on China. He also advised maintaining focus on artificial intelligence, countering the Houthis in Yemen, and addressing the growing alliance between adversarial nations.

ant