Biden’s visit to Kiev was prepared in the deepest secrecy. Traveling reporters had to hand over their phones so that reporting could not take place until the end of the trip. “Safety always comes first, nothing is left to chance,” says Postma.
Previous visits by US presidents to war zones, such as Iraq or Afghanistan, have always been to a closed area or military base. “For Biden to walk into a city at war, while the air raid siren goes off, is unusual for a president,” Postma says. The short notice of Russia’s visit confirms “how incredible this trip is”.
“Nothing is left to chance.”
According to the New York Times, Biden arrived in Kiev after an hour’s train ride from the Polish border. Democrats in particular view the visit as “tough and presidential,” Postma says. The visit coincides with President’s Day, an American holiday that honors all US presidents. This only increases the symbolic value, thinks Postma.
Biden’s commitment
Speaking with President Zelensky, Biden said a new $500 million US aid package would be announced later this week. Ukraine can also count on new shipments of weapons, including ammunition and radar systems to detect airstrikes. That pledge drew criticism, especially from the progressive left corner of the Democrats and the right wing of the Republicans. “These two extremes are critical and question whether all that money should continue to go to Ukraine,” Postma explains.
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But this commitment also has great symbolic value, says Postma. It is a confirmation of US support for Ukraine. Zelensky seems to be making the most of Biden’s visit. Ukraine is the country at war and it needs all the help. This is a clear statement of support.’
Second term
But it is also important for Biden, Postma points out. The president is expected to announce his intention to run for a second term soon. “These are presidential images, images of a world leader. Despite the criticism, Biden is proving on the global stage that America matters and is a leader. And that’s also important.’