Nearing two months into his presidential term, President Joe Biden publicly condemned Russia for their involvement in violating human rights, claiming that the United Nations must “hold Russia accountable”. On March 16th, President Biden announced that the United States intends to increase financial aid to Ukraine, as well as engage in diplomatic talks with Russia.
Diplomatic and Financial Aid to Ukraine
The United States offering of financial aid to Ukraine is an attempt to show support for the country that has become a beacon of democracy in such a volatile region. President Biden noted that the United States plans to double its financial aid to Ukraine, to more than $300 million for 2021. 17 years since the country gained its independence from Moscow, Ukraine is struggling to keep up its nation’s growth due to the issues it has faced with Russia through the years. This increase in financial aid is intended to help Ukraine continue towards economic stability, as well as provide additional resources to its citizens.
Russia’s Abuses of Human Rights
In addition to his stance on Ukraine and Russia, President Biden also made it clear to the United Nations Security Council that the US will not stop speaking out on Russia’s human rights abuses. Biden referenced the recent jailing of Alexei Navalny, a prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin, and called the treatment he and his supporters receive “a clear and present threat to countries and nations throughout the region.”
President Biden further stated that the international community’s failure to respond to the “state-sponsored violence against peaceful protesters” places it “at risk of becoming a weak link”. Biden affirmed that we must stand united in holding Russia accountable and upholding our joint commitment to democratic values and human rights.
The United States’ Response
The United States’ stance in regards to Russia has been the same throughout the Biden administration. While the administration has attempted to start new diplomatic talks with Russia, it has also been critical of their human rights issue. The United States has also backed efforts to impose sanctions against Russia and sought ways to increase support for Ukraine, while also finding ways to reduce tensions between the two countries.
Impact of Biden’s Announcements
President Biden’s call to “hold Russia accountable” has certainly been welcomed by Ukraine. The country has endured a long history of maltreatment from Russia, and Ukraine continues to struggle to keep up its economy despite recent spikes in popularity due to tourism. Ukraine is also thankful for the increased financial aid from the US, as the extra funds are helping their citizens to lead more prosperous lives.
At the same time, Biden’s call is not being met with universal approval from the international community. The United States has been a vocal advocate for Ukraine for more than 20 years, and its stance has caused a bit of tension between the US and Russia among European countries. Furthermore, some believe that Biden’s decision to publicly call out Russia’s abuses of human rights could potentially bring the two countries closer to a new Cold War.
Implications For Global Relations
President Biden’s strong stance on Russia’s human rights abuses has already had implications on global relations. Biden’s speech at the United Nations Security Council has become a UN-recognized commitment to defend human rights, while upholding the international commitment to democratic values.
At the same time, his call on the UN to uphold democracy signals a change in direction for the United States’ diplomacy. Biden’s call is seen by some as a call for peace and global solidarity, as the US increasingly seeks to project its commitment to democracy beyond the United States’ borders. This increases the US’s clout in global affairs and sets a standard in diplomacy that Biden has promised to uphold since taking office.
In speaking out against Russia’s human rights abuses and offering financial aid to Ukraine, President Biden has set up strong standards for international diplomacy and increased the call of accountability for all nations. His speech to the United Nations reiterates the need for accountability on the global stage and sets the tone for the new Biden administration’s foreign policy. While there may be backlash within the international community and worries of the two countries drifting closer to a new Cold War, the president’s calls could ultimately be beneficial to the international community. Biden’s call is a call for peace and global solidarity, and his actions in office can set the stage for a more united international future.
