Biden touts expansion of NATO and actions in the Middle East during West Point commencement
CNN
President Joe Biden touted the expansion of NATO, his actions in the Middle East and progress in lowering military sexual assault in a commencement address to the West Point graduating class.
President Joe Biden touted the expansion of NATO, his actions in the Middle East and progress in lowering military sexual assaults in a commencement address to the West Point graduating class Saturday. While Biden stayed away from mentioning former President Donald Trump or making an appeal to voters ahead of the November election, he drew a sharp contrast with his Republican rival by underscoring values Democrats have suggested are at risk, such as democracy and the NATO alliance. “Nothing is guaranteed about our democracy in America,” he said. “Every generation has an obligation to defend it, to protect it, to preserve it, to choose it. Now it’s your turn.” Speaking to the graduating class of cadets, Biden reiterated the US’ support of Ukraine by saying, “We are standing strong with Ukraine and we will stand with them.” In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Biden said NATO was now “the greatest defense alliance in the history of the world – stronger than ever” while praising its newest members, Sweden and Finland. The president’s speech came as he deals with a delicate balancing act over his support for Israel in its war against Hamas, which has roiled college campuses across the country. The speech also followed a commencement address he gave last weekend at Morehouse College in which he appealed to Black voters while also acknowledging the anguish simmering among young people over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
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