What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
July 9, 2024 Recap
A joint statement was issued from U.S. President Joe Biden, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy affirming their commitment to bolster Ukraine's air defenses amid ongoing Russian aggression. Key points include:
Strategic Air Defense Systems: The U.S., Germany, Romania, the Netherlands, and Italy are providing Ukraine with additional Patriot batteries and a SAMP-T system. These systems aim to protect Ukrainian cities, civilians, and military personnel.
Tactical Air Defense Systems: Over the coming months, the U.S. and partners will supply Ukraine with various tactical air defense systems, including NASAMS, HAWKs, IRIS T-SLM, IRIS T-SLS, and Gepard systems, to enhance air defense coverage. Countries like Canada, Norway, Spain, and the UK will support this initiative, with the U.S. ensuring the delivery of hundreds of air defense interceptors over the next year.
Coalition and Financial Support: Over 50 countries are contributing to Ukraine's security assistance. The Immediate Action on Air Defense Initiative has garnered over $1 billion in pledges, and the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Capability Coalition, led by Germany and France, is actively supporting Ukraine. NATO is also aiding in developing a NATO-compatible air and missile defense system for Ukraine.
Unified Message: The coalition's unified stance sends a clear message to Moscow and the global community that their support for Ukraine remains strong and unwavering.
President Biden announced the approval of a Major Disaster Declaration for Texas following a hurricane that hit the Gulf Coast and Houston. He discussed the situation with Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. FEMA had resources ready before the storm and will continue to support the state's needs. The primary concerns are power outages and extreme heat. Federal support includes pre-positioned and additional generators to help mitigate the impact. The declaration enables life-saving and sustaining activities, and the federal government will assist Texas throughout the recovery process.
On Tuesday, July 9, 2024, the President signed into law:
S. 870, the “Fire Grants and Safety Act of 2023,” which authorizes appropriations for the United States Fire Administration and firefighter assistance grant programs and promotes the deployment of new advanced nuclear reactors through the ADVANCE Act of 2024.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan delivered remarks at the NATO Summit Defense Industry Forum in Washington, D.C. He emphasized the historical significance of NATO and highlighted four major steps taken by the Biden administration to strengthen the Alliance:
Modernization of NATO's Deterrence and Defense: Since Biden took office, NATO Allies have significantly increased their defense investments, with a notable rise from $325 billion in 2020 to over $500 billion in 2023. The number of Allies meeting the 2% GDP defense spending commitment has increased from 9 to 23. Sullivan also detailed efforts to enhance NATO’s readiness and response capabilities, including developing regionally focused plans, streamlining command and control, and investing in modern military technology.
Enhancement of NATO’s Industrial Capacity: In response to Russia's defense expansion, NATO has rallied Allies to bolster their defense industrial bases. This includes the Defence Production Action Plan to address shortfalls like ammunition and the commitment of all Allies to develop plans to strengthen their industrial capacity. The U.S. has invested significantly in its defense industrial base, creating jobs and supporting military readiness.
Support for Ukraine: NATO has provided substantial support to Ukraine amidst Russia’s invasion, including a new NATO military command in Germany, a pledge of 40 billion euros in security assistance, and strengthening Ukraine’s air defense. The U.S. signed a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine, and the upcoming Ukraine Compact will solidify long-term support from over 20 world leaders.
Cooperation with Indo-Pacific Partners: NATO has deepened its cooperation with Indo-Pacific nations like Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. These countries are increasing their defense investments and participating in joint projects on Ukraine, AI, disinformation, and cybersecurity.
Sullivan concluded by acknowledging the ongoing efforts to strengthen NATO and the importance of continued partnership and leadership.
Vice President Harris delivered remarks at a campaign event in Las Vegas, expressing gratitude for the support of local leaders, union workers, and organizations endorsing her and President Joe Biden. She emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, calling it the most consequential of our lifetime. Harris highlighted the Biden administration's achievements, including defending the Affordable Care Act, capping insulin costs, and forgiving student loan debt for millions. She contrasted these with the actions and plans of former President Donald Trump, warning of threats to democracy and reproductive rights if he is re-elected. Harris urged the audience to use their vote as the final line of defense against these threats, stressing the need for continued activism and support in the 2024 election.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre held a press briefing addressing several critical topics. President Biden has been actively involved in the response to Hurricane Beryl, having spoken with Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo about the storm's impacts. With the Governor of Texas out of the country, the president approved a major disaster declaration to facilitate life-saving activities and power restoration efforts. As of the briefing, 800,000 residents had power restored overnight, with another 1 million expected to regain power soon.
Looking ahead, President Biden is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. This meeting, set to occur at the NATO-Ukraine council meeting, will be their third recent encounter, underscoring the strong partnership between the two countries. Jean-Pierre also took a moment to acknowledge the service of Sam Michelle, the acting Deputy Press Secretary, as he completed his tenure.
Questions about President Biden’s health were raised, with Jean-Pierre reiterating that the White House medical team closely monitors his health, and he remains committed to serving a full second term if re-elected. The president continues actively engaging in various meetings and events, demonstrating his dedication despite criticisms. Additionally, the Department of Justice announced efforts to disrupt a Russian bot operation aimed at discrediting U.S. politicians, and the president has been briefed on these developments.
Jean-Pierre also addressed concerns about Iranian actors attempting to influence protests in the U.S., following warnings from the Director of National Intelligence. The U.S. government remains vigilant against any foreign interference in domestic affairs. Furthermore, the upcoming NATO Summit will feature discussions on supporting Ukraine and strengthening international alliances, with President Biden hosting and engaging with multiple global leaders during the event.
Despite polling concerns, President Biden continues to engage with voters and supporters, emphasizing his determination to continue working for the American people. The administration reiterated its commitment to transparency regarding the president’s health and actions, maintaining an open line of communication with the public on these issues.
President Biden celebrated NATO's 75th anniversary, highlighting its historical significance and achievements since its inception in 1949. He recalled the founding moment when 12 countries, including the United States, pledged to defend each other for collective security, creating the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
He praised NATO's enduring strength and adaptability, emphasizing its crucial role during the Cold War, the Balkan conflicts, and the response to the 9/11 attacks. With Finland and Sweden joining, Biden noted NATO's growth and stressed the alliance's democratic nature and increased defense spending among member nations.
The President underscored NATO's importance in countering global threats, particularly Russia's aggression against Ukraine. He announced additional military aid for Ukraine, including air defense systems, and affirmed the U.S. commitment to reinforcing NATO's eastern flank with more troops and capabilities.
Biden emphasized NATO's unity and resilience, declaring that Ukraine will remain free and independent despite Russian aggression. He concluded by awarding NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg the Presidential Medal of Freedom, acknowledging his leadership and contributions to the alliance's strength and unity.
President Biden presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg
