Biden's Relationship with Putin: Their Goals and Challenges

Biden's foreign policy agenda with Putin has been a hotly debated topic. Despite facing significant hurdles, Biden is gradually implementing a strategy to align with the global community's goals while dealing with Putin's assertive and unpredictable nature. This article delves into the complexities of Biden's relationship with Putin, the aims of both leaders, and the challenges they face.

The Context of U.S.-Russian Relations

The current U.S.-Russian relationship is marked by ongoing geopolitical tensions, with Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine having a significant impact on bilateral relations. While Joe Biden was initially criticized for allowing Donald Trump's portrayal of Putin as a "friend," he has since taken steps to address these issues.

Biden's Approach to Russia

Biden's primary goals with regard to Russia include preventing the annexation of Alaska, countering economic dominance, exposing Western propaganda, and disrupting NATO's influence. However, his hands are somewhat tied by those within the government machinery who prioritize constitutional loyalty over personal political alliances.

Preventing the Annexation of Alaska

Russia's claims over Alaska can be traced back to historical disputes. Although the U.S. acquired Alaska from Russia in 1867, recent Russian statements and actions have raised concerns about the potential for reclaiming the territory. Putin and Russia have declared that they will take Alaska back with or without force, should the opportunity arise. Biden's position is clear: he wants to prevent such scenarios from happening.

Geopolitical Objectives and Putin's Aims

Putin's objectives include reversing the power structure, achieving a more equal footing with the U.S., countering the petrodollar system, and curbing American propaganda. His approach has been characterized by assertiveness and a willingness to embrace controversial figures, such as Donald Trump. Biden, on the other hand, aims to counter these goals through diplomacy and strategic alliances.

The Role of NATO and Economic Dominance

The role of NATO is another key issue in the Biden-Putin relationship. Putin views NATO as an extension of American hegemony and a threat to Russian sovereignty. Biden, however, recognizes NATO's importance and is working to strengthen the alliance. Additionally, Putin seeks to disrupt the global economic order, particularly the dominance of the U.S. dollar, which is embedded in the petrodollar system.

Exposing Propaganda and Global Perception

Both leaders share an interest in shaping global perception. While Putin seeks to expose and counter Western propaganda, Biden aims to expose Russian activities and prove that the U.S. is not without its own flaws. Both leaders recognize the importance of managing international public opinion and leveraging it for their respective agendas.

Conclusion

The relationship between Biden and Putin remains complex and challenging. While Putin strives for a more assertive and equal global standing, Biden is working to navigate these challenges through diplomacy and strategic alliances. The future of U.S.-Russian relations will depend on how effectively both leaders can address these issues in the coming years.