Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to attend the last high-level NATO meeting before the Biden administration's term ends. The focus of the NATO foreign ministers meetings in Brussels will be on garnering allied support for Ukraine in light of the upcoming change in the White House administration. The State Department has outlined key priorities for the discussions, including bolstering Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion, enhancing collaboration with NATO's partners in the Middle East, North Africa, and Sahel regions, and preparing for the upcoming summit in The Hague.
Although President Joe Biden will not be in office during the next NATO summit in June, his administration has increased the provision of weapons and other resources to Ukraine in recent months. Biden's strategy aims to empower Ukraine in negotiations for a settlement, particularly as Moscow and North Korean troops have made significant moves in the conflict. In contrast, President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism towards U.S. assistance to Ukraine and hinted at potential reductions or termination of support. He has appointed a former general to oversee mediation efforts to end the war.
Following the NATO meetings, Blinken will travel to Malta to participate in a gathering of foreign ministers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. The organization faces challenges stemming from recent developments in Ukraine, Georgia, and other regions. The discussions at these meetings are crucial in shaping transatlantic security priorities and fostering cooperation among allied nations.
