On June 16, U.S. President Joe Biden will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Geneva. The head of the White House said that during the negotiations he would express his readiness for constructive cooperation, but would stick to the tough position on fundamental issues. This was stated by the President of the United States for its column in the Washington Post.
Biden stressed that before the meeting with Putin, he would hold talks with the leaders of the G7, the European Union, and will attend the NATO summit.
“In Brussels, at the NATO summit, I will affirm the United States’ unwavering commitment to Article 5 and to ensuring our alliance is strong in the face of every challenge, including threats like cyberattacks on our critical infrastructure. While in Brussels, I’ll meet with the president of the European Commission and the president of the European Council to discuss how the United States and Europe can work in close coordination on global challenges. And we will continue to pursue the goal of a Europe whole, free and at peace,” Biden said.
Therefore, “after high-level discussions with friends”, during the Biden-Putin summit, Biden will address the security issues as well.
“We are standing united to address Russia’s challenges to European security, starting with its aggression in Ukraine, and there will be no doubt about the resolve of the United States to defend our democratic values, which we cannot separate from our interests,” the U.S. President affirmed.
According to Biden, during telephone conversations with Putin, he has already clearly outlined his position.
“In my phone calls with President Putin, I have been clear and direct. The United States does not seek conflict. We want a stable and predictable relationship where we can work with Russia on issues like strategic stability and arms control. That’s why I acted immediately to extend the New START treaty for five years and bolster the security of the American people and the world,” Biden stated.
At the same time, according to the head of the White House, he previously demonstrated to Putin what consequences his actions can have.
“At the same time, I have also imposed meaningful consequences for behaviors that violate U.S. sovereignty, including interference in our democratic elections. And President Putin knows that I will not hesitate to respond to future harmful activities. When we meet, I will again underscore the commitment of the United States, Europe and like-minded democracies to stand up for human rights and dignity,” Biden concluded.