The discussion dives into President Biden's attempts to mend international ties and revive NATO post-Trump. Key moments like the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal and the ongoing Ukraine conflict highlight the complexities of his foreign policy. There's a look at the Republican shift against foreign aid and Biden's reactions to the October 7 attack on Israel. The podcast also examines internal fractures within the Democratic Party regarding military support for Israel and contrasts Biden's and Trump's approaches to China. Ultimately, it questions the long-term impacts on Biden's legacy.
Biden's efforts to restore international alliances led to renewed NATO support and a unified response to Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.
The chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan greatly damaged Biden's foreign policy reputation, creating a narrative of incompetence that continues to influence partisan perceptions.
Deep dives
Rebuilding Alliances and Supporting Ukraine
Biden aimed to restore and enhance international alliances after Trump's 'America First' approach. He succeeded in rejuvenating NATO and rallying support for Ukraine amid the Russian invasion, contrasting sharply with Trump's past sympathies for Putin. Despite criticism regarding the speed of military aid to Ukraine, Biden's administration has remained firm in its support, helping to thwart initial Russian advances. The collaboration among over 50 countries, primarily European, reflects a significant effort to provide military and humanitarian assistance, although some Ukrainians feel their needs are inadequately addressed.
The Chaotic Withdrawal from Afghanistan
Biden inherited the complex task of withdrawing U.S. troops from Afghanistan, a plan begun under Trump that ultimately led to a chaotic evacuation. Although the U.S. successfully evacuated about 125,000 Afghans, the surge of the Taliban created a crisis that significantly tarnished Biden's foreign policy reputation. The disorder during the withdrawal, marked by frantic scenes at Kabul airport and a deadly suicide bombing, became a focal point for criticism from Republicans. This pivotal moment notably impacted Biden's approval ratings, embedding a narrative of incompetence that echoes through partisan discourse.
Divisions Over Military Support for Israel
Biden's backing of Israel following the October 2023 Hamas attack underscores the complexities of his foreign policy, particularly within his party. While he initially received widespread support for his stance, the subsequent military actions in Gaza resulted in significant civilian casualties, leading to scrutiny and dissent among Democrats. This situation illustrates a broader shift within the Democratic Party regarding military aid, highlighting emerging rifts over how to respond to international conflicts. The evolving dynamics of U.S. foreign policy underscore how Biden's legacy could be challenged by a potential resurgence of isolationist perspectives, especially if Trump returns to power.
As president, Biden sought to restore faith in the United States' abilities as a world leader, but was tested by a number of significant crises and wars abroad — and by opposition at home.
This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, national security correspondent Greg Myre, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson.
The podcast is produced by Kelli Wessinger, and edited by Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
A previous version of this episode incorrectly stated that the first impeachment inquiry into President Trump based on a phone call to Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky occurred before Joe Biden decided to run for president in 2020. The phone call occurred after Biden launched his run for president.