Local sources from United States: ABC News, The Guardian.
UK coverage: Sky News.
In a rare address to the nation from the Oval Office, President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of American influence and maintaining support both domestically and globally. He linked the conflicts in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting their shared desire to ‘completely annihilate a neighboring democracy.’ Biden aimed to persuade the American people to support Ukraine and navigate the nuanced challenges in the Middle East, acknowledging the divided opinions on military support for Israel and aid for Palestinians. He stressed what he saw as America’s role as a defender of democracy and as a ‘beacon to the world.’ Biden’s speech laid the groundwork for a large foreign aid proposal he will be sending to Congress in support of Israel and Ukraine, specifically to shore up their defense capabilities. The proposal could amount to some $100 billion, including $60 billion more for Ukraine. The request will fall on a paralyzed Congress, with the House without a speaker since the historic ouster of Kevin McCarthy. Biden urged Americans to get past the divisions at home to ensure order abroad, stating that ‘we cannot and will not let terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin win.’ He concluded by saying, ‘We are the United States of America. American leadership is what holds the world together. American alliances are what keep us safe. American values are what make us a partner that other nations want to work with. To put all that at risk — if we walk away from Ukraine, if we turn our backs on Israel — it’s just not worth it.’
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