US President Joe Biden warned Beijing leaders in no uncertain terms after the launch of a Chinese surveillance balloon allegedly used for espionage purposes over US soil. In his State of the Union address on Tuesday evening (Washington DC local time), the head of state stressed: “If China threatens our sovereignty, we will act to protect our country.”
“And we did,” Biden said, addressing his Republican critics, who had initially accused him of hesitant behavior. But the 46th president of the United States also indicated his determination to work with China where American interests could be advanced for the good of the world. In the past, he had made it clear to his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping that the US was out for competition, not conflict.
The appearance of the Chinese balloon has further cooled the already chilly relations between the two countries. The US military shot down the Chinese balloon off the coast of South Carolina over the Atlantic Ocean. Washington accuses China of using the balloon to spy on military installations. The government in Beijing, on the other hand, spoke of a civilian research balloon that had gone off course.
US ‘united’ on aid to Ukraine
Another major foreign policy issue that Biden addressed in his speech was the war in Ukraine. In this regard, he turned to Ukrainian ambassador Oksana Markarova, who was also present, and stressed that the US was “united” in its support for the besieged country. “We will be by your side as long as it takes,” Biden promised. The United States is Ukraine’s main support in the war against Russia, supplying large quantities of arms and other armaments to Kiev. However, there are politicians among the opposition Republicans who are critical of the massive US aid to Ukraine.
Biden’s speech was also interpreted by the US media as a “solicitation speech”, because it is still unclear whether the Democrat wants to run for a second term. The president had promised to make a decision on this early this year. Biden has repeatedly stated his general intention to rejoin in 2024, but has not yet announced a final decision. However, the incumbent head of state promoted his politics and he also devoted most of the speech to domestic political issues.
Republicans want to hold the economy hostage
He also attacked the Republicans, especially in the dispute over a new debt ceiling. “Some of my Republican friends want to hold the economy hostage (…) if I disagree with their economic plans,” Biden said. Instead of making sure the wealthy pay “their fair share,” some Republicans want to scrap Medicare and Social Security. This led to loud boos from Republican lawmakers and an impromptu verbal exchange between the president and the opposition — which Biden seemed to enjoy.
Biden also commented on his internationally controversial subsidy policy, the Inflation Reduction Act: “I know I was criticized for it, but I will not change my mind. We are going to make sure that the supply chain for America starts in America.” The Democrat stressed that he will not apologize for this. “This is in full compliance with international trade rules.” At the same time, Biden called on Republicans in Congress to work together for the good of the country. Conflict would not help the country move forward, he stressed.
Biden calls for a ban on assault rifles
In addition to economic policy, abortion rights, gun rights and the fight against police brutality were also discussed. Biden called for a ban on assault weapons. Just like almost 30 years ago, there must be a law to abolish automatic weapons. At that point, the scheme finally expired, after which the number of deaths from massacres tripled. “Let’s finish the job, ban those assault rifles!” cried Biden.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
