What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
June 13, 2024 Recap
President Biden and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy signed a historic U.S.-Ukraine Bilateral Security Agreement, marking a significant step in the partnership between the two democracies. This agreement signifies strong U.S. support for Ukraine in the present and future and aims to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities to deter future aggression. This commitment is crucial for Ukraine's security and the broader security of Europe and the United States.
More than two years after Russia's unprovoked assault on Ukraine, President Biden reaffirmed that the United States and its allies stand firmly with Ukraine as it fights for its freedom and upholds the principles of the UN Charter. The 10-year agreement outlines a comprehensive plan to enhance Ukraine's defense and deterrence capabilities, ensuring that Ukraine's future forces are strong, sustainable, and resilient. The agreement includes deepened security and defense cooperation, expanded intelligence sharing, and enhanced military interoperability in line with NATO standards. The United States, alongside a broad network of security partners, will support Ukraine's immediate and long-term defensive needs, helping Ukraine win the war and fortifying its deterrence against future threats.
The agreement also focuses on strengthening Ukraine's capacity to sustain its fight over the long term. This includes bolstering Ukraine's defense industrial base and supporting its economic recovery and energy security. Additionally, the agreement aims to accelerate Ukraine's integration into Euro-Atlantic structures by assisting with necessary reforms to its democratic, economic, and security institutions, aligning with Ukraine's EU accession goals and NATO's program of reforms. Achieving a just peace that respects Ukraine's rights under international law, upholds key UN Charter principles, and holds Russia accountable is a central objective of the agreement.
In the event of a future Russian armed attack, the agreement ensures high-level consultations to determine necessary measures to support Ukraine and impose costs on Russia. This bilateral security agreement, along with similar agreements Ukraine has with other partners under the G7 Joint Declaration of Support, serves as a bridge to NATO membership for Ukraine. President Biden emphasized that the U.S. is committed to long-term security commitments to Ukraine, regardless of the ongoing NATO process, to address immediate threats and deter future aggression.
The U.S. Congress has appropriated $61 billion in 2024 to support Ukraine's defense, demonstrating bipartisan support. The Biden Administration will work closely with Congress to ensure sustainable assistance levels and collaborate with allies and partners to maintain a balanced division of responsibility and burden-sharing. The clear message from the United States is one of unwavering support for the people of Ukraine as they defend their freedom and democracy, reaffirming the enduring strength of the U.S.-Ukrainian partnership.
President Biden and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine held a joint press conference in Fasano, Italy, where they signed a significant bilateral agreement to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities. The agreement includes provisions for the United States to provide weapons, expand intelligence-sharing, train Ukrainian troops, enhance interoperability with NATO standards, and invest in Ukraine's defense industry. This support aims to ensure Ukraine can defend itself and deter future aggression without the need for American troops on the ground. Additionally, the G7 nations agreed to unlock $50 billion from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, underscoring the international community's united stance against Russia's illegal aggression.
Both leaders emphasized their shared vision for a just peace, rooted in the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, and holding Russia accountable for the damages caused by the war. The agreement also accelerates Ukraine’s integration into European and trans-Atlantic communities, committing to democratic, economic, and security reforms aligned with EU and NATO standards. Biden announced new sanctions targeting Russia's financial sector and defense production and actions against countries, like China, that supply Russia with materials for its war effort.
President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted the historic nature of the agreement, emphasizing its role in securing Ukraine's future. He stressed the importance of continued international unity and support, noting that the agreement includes detailed, legally binding commitments to support Ukraine's defense during and after the war. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine's victory and the importance of fighting against tyranny to ensure global peace and security.
At the 2024 G7 Summit in Fasano, Italy, President Biden and other G7 leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI), an initiative launched in 2022 to accelerate sustainable infrastructure investment. The United States has already mobilized over $60 billion towards PGI, to reach $200 billion by 2027 as part of the broader G7 target of $600 billion. Significant private sector contributions include commitments from investors such as BlackRock, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), and Brookfield, who plan to invest at least $4 billion in infrastructure projects. Italy has committed $320 million to the Lobito Corridor project in Africa, which includes an 800-kilometer rail network, while the United Kingdom has pledged $50 million for clean energy projects in Africa. The Lobito Economic Corridor, a flagship initiative announced at the 2023 G7 Summit, aims to enhance transportation, agribusiness, digital infrastructure, and clean energy in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia.
In addition to these investments, the United States has announced nearly $900 million in financing for solar farms in Angola and $1.6 billion for solar mini-grids and clean water projects. Microsoft has committed $5 billion to digital infrastructure and cybersecurity in countries such as Kenya, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Google is investing in the Africa Connect initiative to improve digital connectivity across the continent. BlackRock has invested in significant wind and solar energy projects in emerging markets, including Kenya, the Philippines, Thailand, Brazil, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, totaling over $350 million.
The summit also highlighted the development of new economic corridors, such as the Luzon Economic Corridor in the Philippines, which aims to support connectivity and infrastructure development. The U.S.-India Green Fund is set to mobilize up to $10 billion for electric buses and other green initiatives in India. In agriculture, the U.S. committed a $10 million loan for agricultural development in Zambia and a $5 million grant to promote women farmers in Angola. Efforts to enhance climate resilience include the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s (MCC) $500 million investment in Mozambique and initiatives to improve digital connectivity for Pacific Islanders. The PGI continues to focus on mobilizing public and private investments to support sustainable, high-quality infrastructure projects worldwide, promoting economic development, climate resilience, and gender equality.
The President of the Council of Ministers of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, and U.S. President Joseph R. Biden co-chaired a G7 side event in Borgo Egnazia, Italy, focusing on the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII).
Key points include:
Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa (MPA): Italy's MPA was highlighted for its connection with PGII. The G7 agreed to support flagship projects for developing transformative economic corridors, such as the Lobito Corridor, Luzon Corridor, Middle Corridor, and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
Investment Commitments: U.S. investors committed billions in private investment aligned with PGII priorities. The Italian private sector also emphasized its investments under the PGII and MPA. The Mattei Plan for Africa introduced new financial instruments with the African Development Bank.
Lobito Corridor Support: Italy joined efforts to promote sustainable development along the Lobito Corridor, committing up to $320 million in additional investments for core rail infrastructure and related projects, aligning with the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa (AGIA).
Coordination and Collaboration: The co-chairs stressed increasing coordination between PGII, MPA, and the EU’s Global Gateway to maximize collective impact. The Africa Green Industrialization Initiative (AGII) was recognized as a critical platform for infrastructure investment, with the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) committing up to $100 million to unlock $1 billion in private finance for renewable energy projects.
Clean Energy and Sustainable Development: Italy and the U.S. are collaborating on clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and e-mobility projects, starting with potential projects in Kenya.
New Secretariat: Italy’s G7 Presidency efforts include establishing a new Secretariat to promote the effective implementation of PGII and enhance investment coordination with partners.
The event underscored the commitment of G7 leaders and private sectors to mobilize significant infrastructure investments in emerging economies, focusing on Africa and sustainable development.
A senior administration official discussed key points regarding the G7 summit and Russian sovereign assets in a background press call via teleconference. The call began with an announcement of an embargo until 3:30 p.m. Central, followed by the official's remarks on Ukraine's financial needs due to the ongoing difficult battlefield situation. The G7 summit is seen as a crucial opportunity for collective action to ensure Russia bears the financial burden. This initiative is expected to raise $50 billion this year, emphasizing the importance of maintaining solidarity among G7 members.
The official confirmed a political agreement at the highest levels for this deal involving loans to Ukraine. The U.S. is willing to loan up to $50 billion as part of a syndicate to share the financial risk. The loans will be backed by the interest income from immobilized Russian assets, with the principal remaining untouched but with the option to seize it later. This approach respects the rule of law and ensures the assets remain immobilized, given the commitment at the highest political levels.
The call addressed concerns about European resistance from countries like France and Germany, which were overcome through strong leadership and highlighting the high costs of inaction. The necessity of supporting Ukraine was emphasized, presenting it as a critical move to prevent further escalation and instability. The funds will be utilized for various purposes, including military support, budget support, humanitarian aid, and reconstruction efforts. The flexible structure allows jurisdictions to direct funds according to their preferences.
The disbursal of funds will begin this year, but the exact timeline depends on Ukraine's capacity to absorb and effectively use the funds. Several steps are required, such as enshrining commitments, writing contracts, and agreeing on a disbursal schedule. European leaders have committed to immobilizing the assets, ensuring the continuation of the income flow and eventual repayment. The press call concluded with a reiteration of the embargo and the background nature of the provided information.
President Biden has announced his intention to nominate the following individuals for key leadership roles in his administration:
Christy Goldsmith Romero - Nominee for Chair and Member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
Kristin N. Johnson - Nominee for Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions, Department of the Treasury
Caroline A. Crenshaw - Nominee for Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
Gordon I. Ito - Nominee for Member of the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC)
Elizabeth M. Aubin as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Cameroon.
Stephanie L. Hallett as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Brian K. Stimmler as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kyrgyz Republic.
LaKresha R. Moultrie as a Member of the State Justice Institute Board of Directors.
President Biden issued a statement on the Supreme Court's decision in the FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine case, emphasizing that the fight for reproductive freedom is ongoing. Despite the decision, which maintains the availability and approval of mifepristone (a medication used for abortions), Biden highlighted the continued threat to women's rights following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. He criticized Republican officials for imposing extreme abortion bans in 21 states, often without exceptions for rape or incest, and for creating dangerous conditions for women and healthcare providers. Biden affirmed his and Vice President Harris's commitment to ensuring women's healthcare access and called on Congress to restore Roe v. Wade's protections in federal law.
In her remarks at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Vice President Harris addressed the Supreme Court's ruling. She emphasized that despite the ruling, significant challenges remain unchanged. Harris pointed out that two-thirds of women of reproductive age in the United States live in states with restrictive abortion laws enacted during the Trump administration. She noted that the ruling does not alter these existing state bans and highlighted the ongoing threat from Trump’s allies, who may seek to eliminate medication abortion through executive actions if all else fails. Vice President Harris stressed the importance of remaining vigilant and clear-eyed about the threats to reproductive freedom in America.
President Biden issued a statement criticizing Senate Republicans for blocking nationwide protections for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments for the second time. He highlighted that this follows their recent block on protections for birth control, emphasizing the importance of a woman's right to make her own reproductive choices. Biden condemned the Republican stance following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, arguing that it endangers women's health. He reaffirmed his and Vice President Harris's commitment to ensuring women have access to necessary reproductive care and pledged to continue fighting for the restoration of Roe v. Wade protections at the federal level.
Vice President Harris spoke with President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico to congratulate her on her historic election. They discussed strengthening the U.S.-Mexico partnership, focusing on migration, trade, economic growth, combating trafficking, and addressing the climate crisis. They also emphasized the importance of women in leadership and the empowerment of women and girls.
President Joe Biden has extended the national emergency concerning North Korea beyond June 26, 2024. This emergency first declared in 2008 and expanded through several executive orders, addresses significant threats arising from North Korea's nuclear and missile programs and other destabilizing activities. The actions of the North Korean government pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States. For these reasons, the continuation of the national emergency is deemed necessary.
Similarly, President Biden has extended the national emergency regarding Belarus beyond June 16, 2024. Initially declared in 2006 and expanded in 2021, this emergency addresses the harmful activities and abuses perpetrated by certain members of the Belarusian government. These actions continue to present an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States, necessitating the continuation of the emergency status.
In addition, the national emergency concerning the Western Balkans, first declared in 2001, has been extended beyond June 26, 2024. This emergency, which has been expanded over time through various executive orders, deals with issues related to extremist violence and the obstruction of international stabilization efforts in the region. The ongoing threats in the Western Balkans hinder democratic governance and the full integration into transatlantic institutions, posing a significant threat to U.S. interests. President Biden emphasizes that maintaining these national emergencies is essential to address these persistent threats effectively.
President Biden expressed his condolences on the passing of journalist Howard Fineman, highlighting his four-decade career as a significant figure in journalism. The President respected Fineman's reporting and insights, acknowledging their alignment or differences in views. He admired Fineman's personal approach to journalism, rooted in his experiences in Pittsburgh and Louisville. President Biden praised Fineman's role in democracy, emphasizing his focus on facts and storytelling, and noted Fineman's deep love for his family, offering condolences to Fineman's wife, Amy, and their children, Nick and Meredith, recognizing the shared pain of losing a loved one to cancer.
President Biden and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reach a bilateral security agreement during the G7 meeting in Italy
Social problems keep arising because some men insist on creating situations due to personal selfishness.
Our less than Supreme Court is controlled by men of this sort who apparently subscribe to a personal philosophy that rewards greed and continued male dominance.
The fact that women are being stripped of their basic human right to control their bodies is of no consequence to these irresponsible men who show no care beyond themselves. What they fail to realize is they are courting their own destruction through overpopulation.
For the sake of ours and our children's future the majority of us who do not share these short sighted views must turn out to vote against those who openly vow to destroy our still evolving culture.
November 5, 2024 may very well be the most important day in our nation's history. We must vote.
Thank you President Biden and Vice-President Harris.