Biden Highlights “Remarkable Sweep of History” in Final U.N. Speech

President Biden addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, marking one of his final speeches on the international stage as he wraps up an extensive political career focused on foreign policy.

Reflecting on the historical context of his long public service, he acknowledged the challenges many face today but remained optimistic. “I know, I know many look at the world today and see difficulties and react with despair,” he stated. “But I do not. I won’t.”

The current session of the United Nations General Assembly, known as UNGA, has attracted leaders from around the globe to New York City. Biden’s speech highlighted key aspects of his foreign policy, which include rallying support for Ukraine, addressing global competition, and underscoring the importance of the U.N. Charter. He urged leaders to remember that “some things are more important than staying in power,” alluding to his own decision not to seek re-election.

“We must never forget who we’re here to represent,” Biden emphasized. “We, the people. These are the first words of our Constitution and the very idea of America, which inspired the opening words of our UN Charter. I’ve made the preservation of democracy the central cause of my presidency.”

Biden also reflected on the difficult decision of whether to pursue a second term. “Being president has been the honor of my life. There’s so much more I want to get done, but I love my country more,” he stated. “After 50 years of public service, it’s time for a new generation of leadership to take my nation forward. My fellow leaders, let us never forget that some things are more important than staying in power.”

The ongoing violence in the Middle East remains a significant concern. Biden expressed his belief that a cease-fire and a negotiation for hostages are close, yet nearly a year after the deadly attack by Hamas on Israel, a resolution remains out of reach. He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approach, stating that “the world must not flinch” from the horrors of the Hamas attacks and acknowledged the dire situation facing innocent civilians in Gaza.

“Since October 7, we’ve also been determined to prevent a wider war that engulfs the entire region,” he said, referring to Hezbollah’s involvement in attacking Israel. He warned of the continuing displacement of people on both sides of the Israeli-Lebanese border, noting, “Full-scale war is not in anyone’s interest.”

Recent events include missiles striking southern Lebanon, reportedly killing nearly 500 people, as Israel targeted Hezbollah’s weapons hidden in residential areas. The situation has been characterized as “delicate and dangerous” by a senior administration official.

Ukraine’s ongoing struggle following Russia’s invasion also received attention. Biden highlighted the resilience of Ukraine, declaring that President Vladimir Putin has “failed” in his objectives, asserting that Ukraine remains free, and NATO is now “bigger, stronger, more united” than ever before.

Biden’s presidency has contrasted sharply with the previous administration’s more isolationist stance toward allies. Citing the need for strong international alliances, he reiterated, “My fellow leaders, I truly believe we’re at another inflection point in world history where the choices we make today will determine our future for decades to come.”

He urged global leaders to stay committed to the principles that unite them, to oppose aggression, and to address pressing issues like climate change, hunger, and disease.

This week is particularly busy for the president in the realm of foreign policy. Over the weekend, he met with leaders from Japan, Australia, and India at his home in Wilmington, Delaware. He is also scheduled to engage with world leaders on the sidelines of UNGA and will be meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House this Thursday.

Source: CBS News