'The Interview': Antony Blinken Insists He and Biden Made the Right Calls
Jan 4, 2025
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Antony Blinken, the outgoing Secretary of State under President Biden, reflects on his tenure marked by international conflict. He defends his decisions regarding the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, arguing that these positions strengthened America. Blinken emphasizes the complexity of the Gaza conflict and the humanitarian crisis, as well as the importance of continued military and diplomatic support for Ukraine. He also discusses leadership challenges, aging concerns in the White House, and lessons learned from U.S. foreign policy over the past four years.
Antony Blinken defends the Biden administration's foreign policy achievements, asserting that the U.S. has become stronger through strategic alliances.
Blinken reflects on the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal, emphasizing the importance of learning from past actions to inform future diplomatic efforts.
The administration's humanitarian approach in Gaza seeks a balance between dismantling Hamas and protecting civilian lives amidst ongoing conflict.
Deep dives
Navigating International Crises
Secretary of State Antony Blinken discusses the significant international crises he encountered upon taking office, including the withdrawal from Afghanistan, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. He reflects on the Biden administration's commitment to diplomatic engagement amidst these challenges, emphasizing the importance of robust American diplomacy in addressing global issues. Blinken argues that despite the tumultuous global landscape, the U.S. has emerged in a stronger position, having rebuilt alliances and partnerships. He expresses concern over the implications of a potential return to a Trump administration, which may retreat from diplomatic efforts and weaken America's global stance.
The Domestic Perception of Global Engagement
Blinken acknowledges the skepticism among American voters regarding global engagement, a sentiment that contrasts with his belief that most Americans support active involvement in international affairs. He argues that effective American leadership is crucial to prevent global vacuums that could lead to instability and crises detrimental to U.S. interests. By framing the U.S.' engagement as essential to maintaining peace and stability, he hopes to bridge the divide between public perception and foreign policy goals. Blinken highlights that the administration’s actions during his tenure aimed to demonstrate the tangible benefits of international engagement for the American public.
Lessons from Afghanistan
The withdrawal from Afghanistan is a focal point of Blinken's tenure, sparking significant skepticism regarding the administration's foreign policy approach. Acknowledging that the exit was chaotic, he defends the decision as a necessary move to end an enduring conflict and prevent further American casualties. Blinken emphasizes the importance of learning from the withdrawal process, as he initiated an after-action review to identify successes and failures that could inform future decisions. He believes that the withdrawal's lessons have strengthened U.S. responses to subsequent crises, highlighting a proactive approach to improving diplomatic efforts.
Engagement with Russia and Ukraine
As the war in Ukraine escalated following Russia's invasion, Blinken highlights the U.S. strategy of providing support to Ukraine while avoiding direct military conflict with Russia. He describes the careful decision-making process that involved equipping Ukraine with essential defenses prior to the invasion and balancing responses to manage potential escalation. Blinken discusses the significance of diplomatic efforts to create a united front with European allies and other partners in countering Russian aggression. He also reaffirms the U.S.'s commitment to Ukraine’s independence and security in the face of ongoing challenges.
The Gaza Conflict and Humanitarian Concerns
In addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza following the October 7th attacks, Blinken remarks on the administration's efforts to broker peace while ensuring the protection of civilians. He emphasizes the need for a dual approach: dismantling Hamas' military capabilities while safeguarding innocent lives caught in the conflict. Blinken acknowledges the severity of the crisis, noting the high civilian toll and the challenges of providing humanitarian aid amidst ongoing hostilities. He expresses a commitment to finding an off-ramp from violence and a durable resolution that prioritizes both immediate needs and long-term stability in the region.
At the end of a tenure marked by war and division, the outgoing secretary of state defends his legacy on Gaza and Ukraine and says he’s made America stronger.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything
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