Biden Arrives in France to Deliver Speech for D-Day Anniversary

President Joe Biden arrives in France on Wednesday to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, emphasizing his dedication to U.S. allies in Europe and contrasting his democratic ideals with his 2024 political rival Donald Trump.

During his five-day visit to France, Biden will participate in D-Day ceremonies in Normandy, where U.S. and allied forces landed on French beaches to defeat Nazi Germany in World War II. He will also deliver a prominent speech and have a formal state visit with President Emmanuel Macron.

While in Normandy, Biden will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss efforts to repel Russian aggression, according to White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan.

Biden’s speeches in Normandy will focus on the dangers of isolationism and the importance of standing up to dictators, Sullivan added. He will draw parallels from World War II through the Cold War to today’s conflicts in Europe, where NATO plays a crucial role in defending freedom and sovereignty.

The emotional highlight of the visit will be Biden meeting with D-Day veterans who took part in the historic invasion.

Biden and Macron will discuss the potential use of approximately $300 billion in frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, said White House national security spokesperson John Kirby.

In his reelection campaign against Trump, Biden has championed strengthening U.S. democracy, especially in the aftermath of Trump’s presidency. Trump’s threats to abandon NATO and his actions during his time in office have raised concerns among U.S. allies.

However, Biden’s unwavering support for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu during the conflict with Hamas could complicate his message on democracy. Some critics call for halting U.S. military aid to Israel, a stance that could impact Biden’s electoral prospects in key states like Michigan.

The D-Day commemorations occur amid ongoing conflicts, notably Russia’s prolonged war with Ukraine. Biden has described the D-Day invasion as a pivotal moment in history for the defense of freedom and democracy, emphasizing that the sacrifices made that day must not be forgotten.