President Joe Biden delivered a speech outlining his foreign policy accomplishments and principles one week before leaving office, emphasizing the successes of his administration in strengthening U.S. global influence. He asserted that the U.S. is now stronger, with more robust alliances, and its adversaries are weaker, all without engaging in war. Biden highlighted key achievements, such as the expansion of NATO, which he credited for thwarting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion plans in Ukraine. He noted that, despite Putin’s efforts, Ukraine has withstood the invasion, citing his own visit to Kyiv as evidence of Ukraine’s resilience.

Biden also addressed the increasing alignment of authoritarian states like China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, which he sees as a sign of weakness rather than strength. On the ongoing Israel conflict, he mentioned his administration’s efforts to broker peace and facilitate major prisoner exchanges, including the largest modern-day prisoner swap. His National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, confirmed progress in negotiations for releasing hostages held by Hamas.

Biden’s speech was viewed as a final statement of his foreign policy legacy, marking a return to diplomacy after years of Trump-era unilateralism. Analysts predict Biden’s foreign policy will be remembered for supporting the post-World War II world order, contrasting with Donald Trump’s potential shift in direction. Biden’s term ends on January 20, with experts predicting the future impact of the changing leadership on U.S. foreign policy.