President Biden
President Joe Biden arrived in Paris on Wednesday to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day and participate in a state visit hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Biden’s visit aims to deepen ties with transatlantic allies amid ongoing global challenges, including Russia’s actions in Ukraine and the rising influence of China.
On June 6, 1944, allied forces launched the largest military invasion by sea in history, a pivotal moment in World War II.
More than 10,000 casualties were recorded during the invasion, which played a crucial role in the defeat of Nazi Germany.
This year’s commemoration is likely one of the last major events where D-Day veterans, now nearing 100 years old, will be present.
President Biden will deliver a speech from Pointe-du-Hoc, highlighting the importance of democracy and the sacrifices made by soldiers during the invasion.
John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, emphasized the relevance of these historical events to current geopolitical dynamics, stating, “Making it clear what you stand for and what you stand against matters today.”
Following the D-Day commemoration, Biden is scheduled to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron.
The state visit reciprocates the hospitality Macron received from Biden in 2022.
The meetings are expected to cover a range of topics, including Europe’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and strategies for bolstering NATO’s defense capabilities.
Macron has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine, doubling France’s defense budget and committing to surpass NATO’s 2% defense spending benchmark.
In a recent speech, Macron stressed the importance of ensuring European security, stating, “It is today that the question of peace and war on our continent is being answered.”
Biden’s visit to France comes at a time when his leadership and mental acuity have been questioned following a Wall Street Journal report.
The report, based on interviews with over 45 people, including Democrats and Republicans, highlighted concerns about Biden’s age.
However, White House spokesman Andrew Bates defended the president, citing his effective leadership and legislative accomplishments.
“Congressional Republicans, foreign leaders, and nonpartisan national-security experts have made clear in their own words that President Biden is a savvy and effective leader,” Bates said.
Biden is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Normandy and later at the Group of 7 summit in Italy.
These meetings come at a crucial time, as Ukraine has started using Western weapons to strike targets inside Russia.
The White House recently approved Ukraine’s use of US weapons for these operations, a move supported by Macron.
Macron has been particularly outspoken about Ukraine’s right to defend itself, stating, “We think that we should allow them to neutralize the military sites from which the missiles are fired.”
He has also promised continued military support for Ukraine, underscoring Europe’s commitment to the country’s defense.
The United States has been the primary financial supporter of Ukraine’s defense, providing $175 billion since Russia’s 2022 invasion.
This amount surpasses the $171 billion (in today’s dollars) that the US provided to rebuild 16 European countries after World War II.
In contrast, European Union member states have collectively sent Ukraine $53 billion in direct financial assistance and $35 billion in military aid.
Rebuilding Ukraine is expected to cost more than $500 billion, according to the World Bank. Finding the necessary funds poses a significant challenge, especially for European Union countries that often spend more than they make in tax revenue.
Despite these financial hurdles, Macron has assured Zelensky of ongoing support, promising more military aid in the coming weeks.
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