Biden highlights NATO expansion and Middle East efforts in West Point commencement speech

President Joe Biden highlighted the growth of NATO, his efforts in the Middle East, and advancements in reducing military sexual assaults during his speech at the West Point graduation ceremony on Saturday.

Rather than mentioning former President Donald Trump or campaigning for the upcoming election, Biden emphasized the importance of values that Democrats believe are in jeopardy, such as democracy and the NATO alliance.

He said, "Our democracy in America is not guaranteed. It is up to each generation to defend, protect, preserve, and choose it. Now it is your turn."

Biden spoke to the graduating class of cadets and emphasized the US' support for Ukraine by stating, "We are standing strong with Ukraine and we will continue to stand by them."

Biden responded to Russia's invasion of Ukraine by praising NATO as the strongest defense alliance in history, now even stronger with the addition of Sweden and Finland.

The president's speech addressed his support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas, which has caused tension on college campuses. He also spoke about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, acknowledging the concerns of young people while appealing to Black voters during a commencement address at Morehouse College.

The president commended the US military for quickly constructing a temporary pier in Gaza, which has improved the delivery of life-saving aid to the Palestinians.

This week, aid groups have started distributing the humanitarian assistance to Palestinians after facing challenges along the distribution routes that caused delays in the deliveries.

US Military Academy cadets walk to receive their diplomas after President Joe Biden delivered the commencement address at the 2024 graduation ceremony in West Point, New York, on May 25, 2024.

US Military Academy cadets are seen walking to receive their diplomas at the 2024 graduation ceremony in West Point, New York. President Joe Biden gave the commencement address on May 25, 2024.

During his speech on Saturday, the president assured that he is ready to use military force to defend the country. He emphasized that if anyone threatens American troops, they will face consequences. He mentioned his decision to launch drone attacks on Iranian-supported militants after the death of three US service members in Jordan in January.

Biden addressed the issue of sexual harassment in the military, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and respect of all members in the armed forces. He commended the decrease in reported cases of sexual assault and harassment within the military.

He highlighted the positive trend by stating, "For the first time in nearly a decade, rates of sexual assault and sexual harassment have decreased among active-duty forces." Biden expressed a strong commitment to eradicating sexual violence in the military, stating, "It's time to put an end to this scourge once and for all, and we have the ability to make it happen."

CNN’s Avery Lotz and Priscilla Alvarez contributed to this report.

Editor's P/S:

President Biden's speech at the West Point graduation ceremony highlighted the importance of values and the strength of alliances in a changing world. By emphasizing the need to protect democracy, support Ukraine, and strengthen NATO, Biden conveyed a message of unity and resolve in the face of global challenges. His focus on addressing sexual assault within the military demonstrated his commitment to addressing issues of misconduct and ensuring the well-being of all members of the armed forces.

Furthermore, Biden's remarks on the conflicts in the Middle East, including his support for Israel and recognition of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, underscore the complexities of the region and the challenges of balancing security concerns with human rights considerations. The article also sheds light on the efforts of aid organizations to provide assistance to Palestinians, despite obstacles in distribution routes. Biden's unwavering commitment to using military force to defend the country and his determination to eliminate sexual violence within the military further emphasize the multifaceted role of the United States and the responsibilities that come with global leadership.