With just over a week remaining in his tenure as U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken continues to focus on diplomacy and global alliances. Recently completing what is likely his final international tour, Blinken met with world leaders in Seoul, Tokyo, Paris, and Rome, emphasizing the importance of partnerships.
Reflecting on his term during an interview with CBS News’ Sunday Morning, Blinken highlighted the Biden administration’s efforts to rejuvenate alliances. “If the United States is not engaged, someone else will be, or worse, no one will,” he said. Blinken noted progress in NATO’s strategic response to Russian aggression, calling the alliance’s burden-sharing for Ukraine unprecedented.
Under his leadership, the U.S. has provided $102 billion in aid to Ukraine, with allies contributing $158 billion, reinforcing collective efforts against Russian aggression.
Blinken also addressed the Biden administration’s foreign policy challenges, including the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal and tensions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Gaza. On the latter, Blinken reiterated the importance of a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
A seasoned diplomat, Blinken’s career spans decades, with close ties to President Joe Biden. From his diplomatic beginnings during the Clinton administration to being in the room during critical decisions like the raid on Osama bin Laden, Blinken has played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
As his term ends, Blinken remains committed to advancing U.S. influence globally. “What matters is whether the United States can bring real change to people’s lives,” he said, maintaining his idealistic vision for American diplomacy.
When asked about his next steps, Blinken remained noncommittal, emphasizing his focus on the present. “There’ll be time to reflect. But right now, it’s about the work,” he said.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
