President Joe Biden has increased his criticism of former President Donald Trump and the Republican Party regarding Ukraine and Russia.
Utilizing off-camera fundraisers and public events, Biden has taken a more aggressive stance, particularly focusing on House Republicans’ reluctance to provide additional aid to Ukraine and Trump’s failure to condemn Russia for the death of Alexey Navalny, a prominent critic of Vladimir Putin.
During a fundraiser in San Francisco, Biden referred to Putin as a “crazy SOB” and expressed bewilderment at Trump’s comments regarding Navalny. Biden’s strategy aims to spotlight Trump’s rhetoric as the 2024 election approaches.
He has directed his campaign team to call out Trump’s statements more forcefully, emphasizing the urgency of countering Russian aggression and uniting Western allies.
In another fundraiser, Biden criticized the GOP, likening them to “real racists” and accusing them of undermining democratic principles. House Speaker Mike Johnson pushed back, condemning Biden’s remarks as desperate and divisive.
The White House has expressed concern over Russia’s growing military ties with Iran, warning of the implications for Ukraine’s defense efforts. Biden has repeatedly emphasized the need for increased assistance to Ukraine, blaming congressional inaction for the country’s military setbacks.
Despite Biden’s efforts, it remains uncertain whether his pressure campaign will sway resistant Republicans or influence voters’ perceptions of foreign policy issues. While Biden’s team sees Russia as a potent point of contrast between him and Trump, they acknowledge that foreign policy typically takes a back seat to domestic concerns in elections.
To reinforce his message, Biden’s campaign has launched digital ads targeting voters in NATO countries bordering Russia, emphasizing the importance of the alliance and the need for support to Ukraine. Recent polling indicates strong public support for NATO and increased military aid to Ukraine.
As tensions with Russia escalate, Biden continues to assert his administration’s commitment to countering Russian aggression and defending democratic principles on the global stage.