What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
February 24 Recap
The Biden administration announced a significant escalation of sanctions against Russia, marking the largest round since the invasion of Ukraine began two years ago. This move, aimed at increasing pressure on President Vladimir Putin, comes in the wake of the controversial death of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny. The sanctions involve actions from the State and Treasury Departments against 500 entities and three Russian officials directly linked to Navalny's death, focusing on those contributing to Russia's military efforts. Additionally, 90 companies have been added to the Commerce Department's "entity list," limiting their business operations in the U.S.
The sanctions target key Russian companies and sectors, including specialty steel manufacturers, a national payment processing system, and entities outside Russia supplying military materials.
President Biden issued a statement celebrating the successful landing of the Odysseus lunar craft, marking the first American spacecraft landing on the Moon in over 50 years. Launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on February 15, the robotic lunar lander Odysseus, a collaboration between NASA and Intuitive Machines, achieved a historic milestone by landing near the Moon's South Pole. This mission, part of the Artemis program, signifies the beginning of a new era of lunar exploration involving both public and private sectors, aiming to return humans to the Moon. President Biden highlighted the mission's significance in demonstrating American leadership in space exploration, driven by ingenuity and innovation. He also reflected on President Kennedy's 1962 speech, emphasizing America's commitment to tackling challenging scientific endeavors. Biden congratulated the Intuitive Machines team and NASA for their roles in this achievement and underscored the nation's capability when united in effort.
The G7 Leaders issued a statement reaffirming strong support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, praising Ukrainian resilience and condemning Russia's invasion as a violation of the UN Charter. The statement criticizes Russian President Putin for the heavy toll the war has taken on Russian resources and lives while failing to subjugate Ukraine. It emphasizes continued support for Ukraine's right to self-defense, security commitments, and economic assistance, including a significant EU financial support package and efforts to close Ukraine's financing gap.
The G7 leaders call for Russia to cease its war of aggression and withdraw its forces, condemning Russia's attacks on civilians and infrastructure and highlighting efforts to hold those responsible for war crimes accountable. They express commitment to global food security, criticizing Russia's actions that threaten the food supply, and pledge to continue sanctions against Russia to degrade its war capabilities and revenue sources.
The statement pays tribute to Alexei Navalny, calling for clarification around his death and the release of unjustly detained individuals in Russia. It outlines support for Ukraine's democratic reforms, Euro-Atlantic integration, and reconstruction efforts, including international financial support and coordination for recovery projects.
The G7 leaders stress the importance of a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine, respecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and committing to supporting Ukraine's Peace Formula as proposed by President Zelenskyy. They vow to support Ukraine for as long as necessary, highlighting the global implications of Russia's actions and the collective response to ensure accountability and support for Ukraine's sovereignty.
President Biden expressed deep sorrow over the loss of two Mississippi National Guardsmen, whose aircraft crashed during a routine training mission near Booneville, Mississippi. In his statement, he and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden extended their prayers to the families, units, and the Mississippi National Guard during this challenging time. He praised the Guardsmen for embodying the nation's finest qualities of honor and commitment to service.
The President also committed to supporting their families in line with the nation's promise to care for its servicemembers. Additionally, he expressed gratitude towards the local law enforcement and first responders for their swift action in the recovery efforts post-accident. The President affirmed the readiness of the federal government to provide necessary assistance as the Department of Defense and National Guard investigate the incident.
President Biden delivered remarks at the Governors Ball Dinner, emphasizing the importance of bipartisanship and collaboration among state leaders. He humorously noted his Irish heritage and abstention from alcohol, setting a light-hearted tone. The President acknowledged the presence of Governors Cox and Polis, along with other dignitaries, expressing gratitude for their participation.
The President stressed the need for cooperation despite political differences, highlighting the tradition of unity and collective effort. He referenced Abraham Lincoln, quoting his call for Americans to heed the "better angels of our nature" and to remember that, even in times of conflict like the Civil War, "we are not enemies, but friends."
President Biden lamented the current bitterness and personal animosity in politics, contrasting it with earlier times when, despite stark differences, compromise was sought. He shared an anecdote about his extensive interactions with Xi Jinping, the leader of China, during his vice presidency, illustrating the idea of America as a land of "possibilities."
Concluding his remarks, President Biden expressed unparalleled optimism for the country's future, encouraging unity with the toast "to possibilities," signifying belief in America's potential for achievement through collaboration.