Biden and Allies Call for Gaza Ceasefire Renewed

AFP

US President Joe Biden and European leaders, meeting during Biden’s farewell visit to Germany, are expected to renew their calls for a ceasefire in Gaza following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar by Israeli forces.

Biden, speaking aboard Air Force One, welcomed Sinwar’s death, calling it a “good day” that could help clear the way for a ceasefire and a potential hostage deal.

During the talks, Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are also set to reaffirm their commitment to military support for Ukraine as the country faces a third winter of war against Russia.

Biden’s visit follows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s presentation of a “victory plan” to NATO and the European Union in Brussels.

Biden arrived in Berlin late Thursday, just weeks before U.S. elections in which allies are closely watching the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House.

Trump, who criticized NATO and opposed extensive U.S. support for Ukraine during his last term, would likely take a softer stance on Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon if re-elected.

Biden’s Berlin meetings are also expected to address the Israel-Hamas conflict and the broader risks of escalation, particularly involving Hezbollah and Iran. While expressing congratulations to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden emphasized the need to secure the release of hostages and bring an end to the conflict.

German Chancellor Scholz voiced support for a ceasefire, saying Biden had put forward a proposal that Germany backed.

Biden’s one-day visit to Berlin, initially planned as a longer state visit, was condensed due to his response to Hurricane Milton in the US. He will meet German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who will award Biden Germany’s highest honor, recognizing his efforts in strengthening the transatlantic alliance, particularly in the face of Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Ukraine’s push to join NATO remains a topic of discussion, with Zelensky advocating for immediate membership and an end to restrictions on using long-range weapons. While there is no current consensus on Ukraine’s NATO membership, Biden’s administration stressed that Ukraine is on a “path to membership” and vowed continued support for Kyiv.

French President Macron also voiced support for including Ukraine in future NATO summits, while discussions on security guarantees for Kyiv are expected to continue. The U.S. remains Ukraine’s largest military supporter, followed by Germany, and Biden’s administration is focused on ensuring long-term, sustainable backing for Ukraine’s defense.