Can Harris Assuage European Allies' Fears In Munich?
Feb 15, 2024
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Vice President Kamala Harris attends the Munich Security Conference to reassure European allies. The podcast discusses her role in foreign policy and how her identity as a woman may influence her role. Concerns around President Biden's age are compared to former President Trump and Republicans attack Vice President Harris on this issue.
Vice President Kamala Harris aimed to reassure European allies of US commitment to their safety despite failed attempts to fund Ukraine and renewed threats to NATO members by former President Donald Trump.
European leaders are increasingly uncertain about the US's consistency and stability in foreign policy, leading them to contemplate potential alternatives and question the future of Europe-US relations.
Deep dives
Vice President Kamala Harris reassures European allies
Vice President Kamala Harris attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany to deliver a major foreign policy speech and reassure European leaders about the US commitment to the transatlantic alliance. Harris's mission was to present a contrast to former President Trump's isolationist rhetoric, emphasizing America's belief in the value of alliances and NATO. European leaders are concerned about the US's consistency as a partner given the unpredictable nature of American politics. Harris aimed to show that she is a capable figurehead who can be trusted on foreign policy.
Uncertainty surrounding American politics affects US-European relations
European leaders are increasingly unsure about the US's reliability and commitment due to the unpredictable nature of American politics. The divisions and polarization in the country raise concerns about the consistency and stability of US foreign policy. There is apprehension about the US's ability to fulfill commitments, such as providing aid to Ukraine or upholding the transatlantic alliance. European leaders are contemplating potential alternatives and thinking about what the future holds for Europe-US relations.
The role of Vice President Kamala Harris in diplomacy and foreign policy
Vice President Kamala Harris's presence at the Munich Security Conference and her involvement in foreign policy showcases her role as a prominent figure in the Biden administration's diplomatic efforts. As a relatively new senator with limited foreign policy experience, Harris's participation in international events like the Munich Security Conference helps establish her credibility and capability to address global issues. It also allows her to demonstrate her value in engaging with key voting groups, such as younger voters and voters of color. Harris's role in Munich serves both to reassure foreign leaders and to solidify her position within the administration.
Vice President Kamala Harris is in Germany this week for the Munich Security Conference. Harris is tasked with reassuring European allies the U.S. remains committed to their safety despite Congress' failed attempts to fund Ukraine, and renewed threats to NATO members by former president Donald Trump.
This episode: national political correspondents Sarah McCammon & Danielle Kurtzleben, and White House correspondent Asma Khalid.
This podcast was produced by Jeongyoon Han, Casey Morell & Kelli Wessinger. Our editor is Erica Morrison. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
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