What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
August 23, 2024 Recap
President Biden had a discussion with Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar, focusing on the pressing need to finalize a ceasefire and hostage release agreement. This comprehensive bridging proposal, currently on the table, is designed to achieve multiple goals: securing the release of hostages, delivering critical humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and lowering the heightened tensions across the region. The conversation also touched upon the upcoming talks in Cairo, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of removing any lingering obstacles to the deal’s success. President Biden expressed his deep appreciation for the Amir’s leadership and efforts in this complex situation. They both agreed to maintain close coordination in the days ahead, both directly and through their respective teams, to ensure progress on these critical issues.
A Background Press Call on Administration Travel to China discussed the upcoming visit of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to Beijing, where he will meet with PRC Foreign Minister Wang Yi from August 27th to 29th. This visit, part of ongoing high-level diplomatic engagements, aims to manage the competitive and tense U.S.-China relationship responsibly. Sullivan and Wang have met multiple times, discussing key bilateral, regional, and global issues, including military-to-military communication, counternarcotics cooperation, and AI safety.
The call emphasized that this trip is not directly related to the upcoming U.S. elections but is part of regular strategic communication between the two nations. The discussion will cover areas of agreement, like counternarcotics and AI safety, and areas of difference, such as China's support for Russia and tensions in the South China Sea. The focus is on managing competition and avoiding conflict rather than achieving specific deliverables.
The official also mentioned that U.S. policy towards China under the current administration is not about changing China but positioning the U.S. to succeed in this competitive relationship, building alliances, and ensuring open communication channels to manage risks.
In summary, the visit aims to continue high-level discussions on important issues, manage competition, and prevent tensions from escalating without expecting significant changes or breakthroughs.
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby held an on-the-record press gaggle discussing several significant topics related to U.S. foreign policy and national security. He began by emphasizing the U.S.'s ongoing support for Ukraine as it approaches its Independence Day, noting that more security assistance will be announced soon. Kirby then provided an update on the constructive discussions in Cairo concerning a potential Middle East deal, with continued talks expected over the weekend. He stressed the importance of both sides working towards implementation, with the involvement of Director Burns and Brett McGurk.
Addressing concerns in the Middle East, Kirby refrained from detailing Israel's position on maintaining forces along the Philadelphi land corridor. Still, he highlighted the U.S.'s preparedness to defend its interests and allies, particularly in the face of potential threats from Iran. Kirby also discussed National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's planned visit to China, which follows previous high-level discussions. The trip will address various issues, including military communication channels, fentanyl prevention, and regional tensions with China.
When asked about the UAE's decision to accept an ambassador from the Taliban, Kirby stated that while the U.S. does not recognize the Taliban, this decision would not affect U.S.-UAE relations. Lastly, Kirby touched on Ukraine's recent military activities, confirming that the U.S. continues to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression while closely monitoring the situation to prevent escalation. The briefing underscored the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Ukraine, managing tensions in the Middle East, and engaging diplomatically with key global partners like China.
President Biden, in his statement ahead of Ukraine's Independence Day, reaffirmed the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine amidst Russia's ongoing war. He emphasized that despite the conflict, Ukraine remains a free and sovereign nation and will continue to do so. Biden announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, which includes air defense missiles, counter-drone equipment, and ammunition for frontline soldiers. In addition to this, the U.S. is imposing new sanctions on nearly 400 entities and individuals involved in supporting Russia's war efforts. The President highlighted the significant steps taken by the U.S. and its allies to bolster Ukraine's defense, such as transferring F-16 fighter jets and forming the Ukraine Compact with 20 nations. He concluded by stating that Russia will not succeed in its aggression, and with continued support from the U.S. and its allies, Ukraine will remain independent.
In his proclamation on Women’s Equality Day 2024, President Biden reflected on the historic importance of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, and acknowledged the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the United States. He pointed out that while the 19th Amendment was a significant milestone, it did not ensure voting rights for all women, particularly women of color, until the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965. Biden reiterated his administration's dedication to defending reproductive rights, advancing gender equity, and promoting women's participation in the workforce. He also mentioned efforts to combat violence against women, including the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act and measures to address online harassment. The President called on Congress to pass legislation to protect voting rights and to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, emphasizing the need for continued progress toward gender equality. He proclaimed August 26, 2024, as Women’s Equality Day, urging Americans to celebrate the advancements and persist in the fight for equal rights for women and girls.
President Biden issued a memorandum delegating authority to the Secretary of State under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. This delegation allows the Secretary of State to direct the drawdown of up to $125 million in defense articles, services, and military education and training from the Department of Defense to provide assistance to Ukraine. The Secretary is also authorized to make the necessary determinations for this action and to publish the memorandum in the Federal Register.
President Biden has declared a major disaster in Montana due to straight-line winds that occurred on July 24, 2024. This declaration enables federal assistance to support state, tribal, and local recovery efforts. Funding will be provided on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and repairing or replacing facilities in Missoula and Powell counties. Additionally, federal funds are available for hazard mitigation measures across the state. Edwin J. Martin from FEMA has been appointed to oversee federal recovery operations in the affected areas.