What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
August 1, 2024 Recap
President Biden announced the successful release of three American citizens—Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, and Alsu Kurmasheva—and one American green card holder, Vladimir Kara-Murza, who were unjustly detained in Russia. He described the achievement as a significant diplomatic victory, highlighting that the negotiation process was complex and involved collaboration with international allies, including Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Turkey.
Biden mentioned that the broader agreement secured the freedom of 16 people, which included not only the American detainees but also five German citizens and seven Russian political prisoners who had been unjustly imprisoned in Russia. Some of these individuals had been held for years, enduring severe hardships and uncertainty.
The President expressed deep gratitude to the allies who supported the U.S. throughout the challenging negotiations, emphasizing the importance of strong international alliances for ensuring the safety and security of American citizens.
Biden also reaffirmed his commitment to continuing efforts to secure the release of all Americans wrongfully detained or held hostage around the world. He noted that his administration has successfully brought home over 70 Americans who were in captivity, some of whom had been held since before he took office. Despite these successes, he acknowledged that many families are still separated from their loved ones and vowed to keep making their safe return a top priority.
The statement concluded with a message of celebration for the return of Whelan, Gershkovich, Kurmasheva, and Kara-Murza and a renewed commitment to the families of those still detained, assuring them that the U.S. government remains dedicated to bringing their loved ones home.
In his remarks to the press, Biden explained that the individuals were accused of espionage or treason without any legitimate grounds. He noted Kara-Murza's conviction for treason was particularly egregious, as it was a result of his outspoken criticism of President Putin and his regime.
The President expressed relief and joy for the families of the released individuals, with whom he had spoken just moments before the announcement. He shared that the prisoners had been flown to Turkey earlier in the day and were en route to the United States to reunite with their families. He acknowledged the emotional toll the detentions had taken on these families and their steadfast hope for their loved ones' return.
The release of these Americans was part of a broader deal involving the release of 16 prisoners. In addition to the four Americans, five Germans and seven Russian political prisoners were freed as part of the agreement. Biden highlighted the significance of securing the release of these Russian political prisoners, many of whom had been imprisoned for opposing the war in Ukraine or advocating for democracy. One of the released Russians was affiliated with Memorial, a human rights organization that won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022.
Finally, when asked about former President Trump's claims that he could have secured the release of hostages without making concessions, Biden dismissed the remark, questioning why it wasn't done during Trump's presidency. The remarks concluded with Biden reaffirming his administration’s commitment to bringing home Americans detained abroad and emphasizing the importance of international alliances in achieving these goals.
In a statement at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Vice President Harris condemned the hostages’ arrests and trials as a gross miscarriage of justice and praised the courage of the detainees and their families. The release was achieved through extensive diplomatic efforts by the Biden administration. The exchange also included the release of Russian political prisoners associated with Aleksey Navalny. Harris emphasized the ongoing commitment of the U.S. to secure the release of Americans wrongfully detained worldwide, highlighting the administration's success in bringing home over 70 Americans in the past three and a half years.
Vice President Harris had a phone call with Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny. This conversation took place following the release of 16 political prisoners from Russia. The released individuals included three American citizens, one American green card holder, five German citizens, and seven Russian citizens. Some of the Russian citizens who were released had worked closely with Navalny in his efforts to fight corruption and advocate for a free and democratic Russia.
During the call, Vice President Harris welcomed the release of these individuals and expressed her continued support for those who are fighting for freedom in Russia and globally. She commended Yulia Navalnaya for her courage in continuing her late husband’s work for justice and the rule of law in Russia despite the personal risks and challenges she faced.
Vice President Harris had previously met with Yulia Navalnaya in February 2024 at the Munich Security Conference, just hours after the tragic news of Alexey Navalny’s death in a Russian prison was made public. Harris was deeply moved by Navalnaya’s resilience and determination. She later wrote a piece about her for TIME Magazine’s “The 100 Most Influential People of 2024,” recognizing her significant impact and influence in the ongoing fight for democracy and human rights in Russia.
Vice President Harris delivered a heartfelt tribute at the Homegoing Service for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, emphasizing her legacy as a formidable advocate for justice and equality. Harris began by acknowledging the presence of notable attendees, including former President Bill Clinton, Secretary Hillary Clinton, and members of Congress. She expressed her deep respect and admiration for Jackson Lee, describing her as a "true champion" and a woman of "deep faith and deep compassion."
Harris recounted Jackson Lee's long and distinguished career, noting her many titles, including judge, councilmember, and congresswoman. However, Harris emphasized that Jackson Lee cherished her roles as a wife, mother, and grandmother most of all. Harris expressed sympathy for the Lee family, acknowledging the challenges of losing a loved one who was also a public figure.
She highlighted Jackson Lee's tireless work ethic, referencing her mastery of the legislative process and dedication to serving her constituents. Harris humorously recalled how encountering Jackson Lee in the halls of Congress often meant being drawn into serious and detailed discussions about policy and the people's needs. She noted that Jackson Lee was unrelenting in her pursuit of justice and never missed an opportunity to fight for the people she served.
Harris praised Jackson Lee's deep connection to the Houston community, where she was known for her ubiquitous presence at events, from funerals to block parties. Jackson Lee's dedication extended beyond her own district, as she often helped individuals from other areas who needed assistance with government services. Harris shared an anecdote about how Jackson Lee creatively solved a budget shortfall in Houston by raising funds to keep public pools open during a heatwave.
On the national stage, Jackson Lee was a leader in various important causes. She played a key role in reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act, supporting the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," and founding the Congressional Children's Caucus. Harris also highlighted Jackson Lee's pivotal role in making Juneteenth a federal holiday, an achievement that Harris proudly co-sponsored as a senator.
In conclusion, Harris reflected on Jackson Lee's 30 years of service in Congress, during which she consistently worked to make change for the better. Harris urged those in attendance to honor Jackson Lee's memory by continuing her fight for freedom, opportunity, and justice for all. She ended her remarks by expressing how much Jackson Lee will be missed and by offering a blessing for the congresswoman and the nation.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held a press briefing focusing on a historic prisoner exchange negotiated by the Biden administration. The exchange led to the release of 16 individuals detained in Russia, including three American citizens—Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, and Alsu Kurmasheva—and one American green card holder, Vladimir Kara-Murza. This exchange, described as one of the most complex in U.S. history, also involved the release of German citizens and Russian political prisoners, highlighting the strong collaboration between the U.S. and its allies, including Germany, Norway, Poland, Slovenia, and Turkey.
President Biden played a critical role in these negotiations, engaging in multiple conversations with international leaders, such as Germany's Chancellor Scholz and Slovenia's Prime Minister, to ensure the success of the deal. The logistical coordination required was significant, with planes from multiple countries landing simultaneously to facilitate the exchange. The emotional impact of this successful negotiation was evident in the Oval Office, where President Biden, along with the families of the released individuals, learned of the successful exchange.
Sullivan also addressed concerns that such exchanges could incentivize future detentions of Americans abroad. He acknowledged the complexity of these decisions, balancing the need to bring innocent Americans home against the potential risks. However, he argued that the benefits of reuniting families and demonstrating the U.S. government's commitment to its citizens outweighed the risks.
In addition to the prisoner exchange, the briefing covered other international and domestic issues. Sullivan discussed the administration's efforts to prevent the escalation of conflicts in the Middle East, particularly in light of recent violence involving Israel and Hamas. He also touched on the strained U.S.-Russia relations, noting the lack of progress in arms control talks with Russia, even as the two countries managed to coordinate this complex exchange.
The briefing also highlighted the administration's ongoing efforts to secure the release of other detained Americans, such as Marc Fogel, who remains imprisoned in Russia. Sullivan confirmed that Aleksey Navalny was initially part of the negotiation efforts but tragically passed away before his release could be secured. Domestically, the briefing addressed a recent plea deal with 9/11 suspects at Guantanamo Bay, which has sparked controversy for allowing the defendants to avoid the death penalty. The administration clarified that it had no involvement in this decision but reaffirmed its commitment to justice for the 9/11 families.
Vice President Kamala Harris's role in these diplomatic efforts was also emphasized during the briefing. Harris engaged with international leaders on various issues, demonstrating her partnership with President Biden in achieving these diplomatic successes. The administration's work underscores its commitment to protecting U.S. citizens abroad and navigating complex international relations while also addressing significant domestic concerns.
President Biden, along with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, expressed deep condolences to those impacted by the deadly landslides in Kerala, India. They offered prayers for the victims and mourned with the families who had lost loved ones. The statement also praised the bravery of Indian service members and first responders involved in the recovery efforts and assured that the people of India will remain in their thoughts during this challenging time.
The second U.S.-Singapore Critical and Emerging Technology (CET) Dialogue was held in Singapore, with key leaders from both countries participating. The meeting reaffirmed their commitment to creating secure and open technology ecosystems, promoting innovation, and fostering economic growth within a rules-based international framework.
Key areas of collaboration discussed include:
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Both nations aim to align governance frameworks, support international AI standards, and foster collaboration between AI safety institutes.
Digital Economy and Data Governance: The dialogue focused on enhancing data flow, privacy, and digital economy cooperation through joint initiatives and frameworks.
Biotechnology: A new memorandum of understanding was signed to promote collaboration in microbial genomics and biotechnology, with future joint research and workshops planned.
Critical Infrastructure and Technology Supply Chains: The dialogue emphasized securing 5G networks, smart city initiatives, and collaboration in semiconductor development.
Defense Innovation: A new agreement was reached to enhance defense innovation cooperation, particularly in maritime security and counter-drone systems.
Quantum Information Science and Technology: The two countries discussed quantum-safe migration, cryptography, and expanding industry collaboration and talent exchange in quantum technologies.
The dialogue concluded with plans to continue these collaborations. The next meeting is scheduled for 2025 in the United States.
The United States and China held a senior official meeting in Washington, DC, as part of the Counternarcotics Working Group, which was relaunched in January 2024 following a decision by Presidents Biden and Xi. This group focuses on combating the global manufacturing and trafficking of illicit synthetic drugs like fentanyl.
During the meeting, senior officials from both countries discussed progress in their joint counternarcotics efforts, including recent arrests, and planned next steps to enhance cooperation. Key discussion points included improving coordination on law enforcement, disrupting illicit financing of criminal networks, scheduling synthetic drugs and precursor chemicals, addressing the diversion of these chemicals, sharing information on emerging threats, and advancing work in multilateral settings.
The U.S. delegation included officials from various agencies, such as the White House National Security Council, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Department of Homeland Security. In contrast, the Chinese delegation was led by Director General Wei Xiaojun of the PRC Ministry of Public Security.
President Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to Israel's security, particularly against threats from Iran and its proxy groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. They discussed U.S. military support for Israel's defense, including new deployments. The call also emphasized the importance of de-escalating regional tensions. Vice President Harris was also part of the conversation.
President Biden meets with the families of the detainees in Russia who were freed through a prisoner swap
