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For host Joe Biden, the current Nato summit is about proving his ability to handle the relentless demands of the US presidency for another four years. Heads of state from Europe and North America are facing the possibility of Nato sceptic Donald Trump’s return as Biden struggles to revive his reelection campaign, which has been faltering since a poor debate performance against Trump read more
 "A make or break? Why Nato summit is Biden's big chance to prove he is fit to run the US")
US President Joe Biden, left, and first lady Jill Biden applaud before Biden delivers remarks on the 75th anniversary of NATO at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, July 9, 2024, in Washington. AP
The ongoing Nato summit has become a pivotal moment not just for the alliance, but for US President Joe Biden himself. As world leaders gather in Washington DC, Biden faces a critical test of his fitness for office amidst rising concerns about his age and health.
This three-day summit which began on Tuesday, is intended to celebrate Nato’s 75th anniversary and solidify long-term support for Ukraine, but now also serves as a stage for Biden to demonstrate his vitality and leadership.
Why Biden’s health is under scrutiny
At 81, Biden’s health and cognitive capacity have become focal points, especially following his poor debate performance last month. In that debate with former US President Donald Trump, Biden appeared weak and incoherent, leading to heightened scrutiny and concern among even his staunchest supporters.
“I’m running the world,” Biden declared during an interview with ABC, an assertion aimed at quelling doubts about his ability to lead. However, the debate’s fallout has overshadowed his leadership achievements, including uniting Nato allies against Russian aggression in Ukraine and expanding the alliance to include Sweden and Finland.
Nato leaders will be keeping an eye on Biden
Biden’s physical and mental state will be closely monitored by both domestic and international audiences. European diplomats, while publicly reserved, privately express skepticism about Biden’s capacity to lead effectively.
Kurt Volker, former US ambassador to Nato, noted that allies are seeking assurances about Biden and the future US role in Nato. “Is it going to be President Biden? Is he capable of that?” Volker spoke to CNN, highlighting the global concern over Biden’s political and physical health.
Heads of state from Europe and North America are already confronting the prospect of the return of Nato critic Donald Trump as Biden tries to save his reelection campaign.
While departing from Berlin on Tuesday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz denied having any concern about Biden’s health. “From the many conversations I have had with the American President, I know that he has prepared this summit very well and very precisely together with us,” Scholz told reporters.
Also Read: From donors to Democracts, who is asking Biden to drop out of 2024 US presidential race?
The summit will give Biden his first chance to meet one-on-one with new British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Starmer’s Labour party had no concerns about Biden’s mental acuity during their phone call, according to a spokesman for the UK prime minister who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private call, reported AP.
Meanwhile, within the US, Biden faces pressure from Democrats to demonstrate his fitness for a second term. “We need to see a much more forceful and energetic candidate,” warned Sen. Patty Murray, echoing the concerns of many within the party.
Why Biden is important to Nato
The summit’s agenda focuses on demonstrating Nato’s enduring support for Ukraine and countering Chinese ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Biden’s defiance against calls to step down from the race has not gone unnoticed. “We are the essential nation of the world,” Biden stated, positioning himself as indispensable in global politics.
Despite the political turmoil, the summit is expected to yield significant commitments. According to John Kirby, White House national security communications adviser, announcements will include new air defence support for Ukraine and investments in Nato’s deterrence capabilities. The leaders will also reaffirm Ukraine’s path to Nato membership, a crucial message amidst ongoing conflict.
The summit also aims to institutionalise aid to Ukraine and define the future relationship between Nato and Kyiv. A draft text of the final communique describes Ukraine’s path to Nato membership as “irreversible,” signaling a strong commitment despite internal political distractions.
Biden’s leadership has been crucial in rallying Nato allies against Russian aggression. His administration has orchestrated substantial military support for Ukraine, akin to the US backing Afghan mujahideen against the Soviet Union in the 1980s, reported CNN. Yet, Biden must now balance demonstrating his own vigour with maintaining strategic focus.
Also Read | NATO leaders’ summit in Washington: Who is attending? What to expect?
The outcome of this summit will not only affect Nato’s stance against Russia and China but also Biden’s political future. His performance could either reassure his allies and constituents or amplify the concerns about his capacity to serve another term.
The final communique, expected to outline Nato’s commitments and strategic direction, will be serve as a testament to host Joe Biden’s leadership on the domestic and global stage.
With inputs from agencies
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English (US) ·