- Region:
- World
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- Politics
Biden in farewell U.N. address says peace still possible in conflicts in Mideast and Ukraine
In his final address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of continued American engagement in global affairs. As tensions between Israel and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon escalated toward the brink of war, and the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza approached its one-year anniversary, Biden made a strong case for diplomacy and peace.
Biden addressed multiple global conflicts, including the ongoing 17-month civil war in Sudan, while reiterating the U.S. commitment to Ukraine in the face of Russia's invasion, which began in February 2022. The president stressed that the world cannot afford to retreat into isolation, urging continued international cooperation to resolve these crises.
"Peace is still possible," Biden said, expressing optimism about the potential for resolution, even in the face of escalating violence in the Middle East and Ukraine. He emphasized that the U.S. and his Western allies will continue to support Kyiv, but warned that this backing could be jeopardized by political changes in Washington, specifically if former President Donald Trump returns to power in 2024. In his wide-ranging speech, Biden also touched on the growing influence of artificial intelligence, cautioning that while it offers significant opportunities, it also carries the risk of being used as a tool for oppression.
Despite the daunting challenges the world faces, Biden remained hopeful, stating, "I've seen a remarkable sweep of history. I know many look at the world today and see difficulties and react with despair, but I don't." His remarks were a call to action, reaffirming the United States' role as a global leader in the pursuit of peace and stability.