US President Joe Biden has arrived in France, marking the start of a five-day visit to participate in the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, an operation that was critical in the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation during World War II. President Biden’s agenda includes ceremonies in Normandy to honor the bravery of the Allied forces, a speech on democracy, and a state visit with French President Emmanuel Macron.The commemorations will pay tribute to the more than 200 surviving veterans expected to attend and will also serve to reinforce the importance of democracy and international alliances. Biden’s speech is anticipated to draw parallels between the fight against Nazi Germany and the current global struggle against authoritarianism, highlighting the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.In addition to the D-Day events, Biden is set to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. They will discuss the United States’ continued support for Ukraine as it battles Russia’s invasion, a conflict that has become the deadliest on the European continent since World War II. Biden and Zelensky will also meet during the upcoming G7 summit in Italy.The visit comes at a time when President Biden is campaigning for re-election, emphasizing the importance of preserving and strengthening democracy. His meetings with European leaders, including King Charles III, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Italian President Sergio Mattarella, will also underscore Western unity in the face of major conflicts.
Key points
- President Biden’s visit to France is part of the 80th D-Day anniversary commemorations.
- Biden will deliver a speech on democracy and meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky to discuss US support.
- The commemorations will honor the Allied forces and reinforce the importance of international alliances.
- Biden’s visit also aligns with his re-election campaign’s emphasis on democracy.
