All eyes on Biden's final UN address as President: Geopolitical conflicts, foreign policy legacy in focus

Biden’s presidency has been shaped by significant foreign policy hurdles, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and the September 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which triggered a robust Israeli military response in Gaza.

As US President Joe Biden prepares for his final address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, he seeks to reinforce his foreign policy legacy while tackling critical global issues, particularly the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

In the final months of his presidency, Biden will step up to the green-marbled lectern, where he is expected to address the intricate geopolitical challenges presented by wars in Ukraine and Gaza. The Pentagon has announced the deployment of additional US troops to the Middle East as a precautionary measure in light of rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

Biden’s presidency has been shaped by significant foreign policy hurdles, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and the September 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which triggered a robust Israeli military response in Gaza. His administration has also concentrated on countering the influence of China and Iran, which are aligned with Hamas and Hezbollah.

A senior administration official has revealed that Biden's speech will highlight his notable accomplishments while urging the international community to support Ukraine and seek diplomatic resolutions in the Middle East. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that Biden will outline his vision for global collaboration in addressing urgent challenges and reaffirm the principles of the UN Charter.

Later this week, Biden is set to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington to discuss a new peace initiative, likely involving requests for enhanced military assistance for Ukraine. Jean-Pierre reiterated the US commitment to helping Ukraine achieve a "just, lasting, and comprehensive peace" amid the ongoing conflict.

Biden's UN address marks a central moment in his two-day visit to New York, which will also feature a climate-focused speech and a meeting with Vietnamese President To Lam. Strengthening ties with Vietnam is a priority for Biden as he aims to counter the influence of Russia and China.

Biden has consistently supported Israel during its military actions against Hamas but has faced challenges in negotiating a ceasefire in the region. His administration has provided substantial military aid to Ukraine and garnered NATO support for Kyiv, but the conflict remains at a stalemate, with Russia maintaining control over parts of eastern Ukraine.

As he prepares to bid farewell to world leaders at the UN, Biden aims to ensure that his foreign policy achievements are seen as "irreversible," working to secure a legacy that stands in opposition to the potential resurgence of Trump's hardline policies.