US and EU unite to address conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine

In a joint message of solidarity, US President Joe Biden and European Union (EU) leaders emphasised the need for unity in addressing the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.

Despite concerns about political gridlock in the United States potentially affecting support for allies, they stressed the importance of democracies standing together, reported AFP.

The EU-US summit, held amid the backdrop of global crises, witnessed Ukraine's struggle against Russian forces and Israel's preparations for an invasion of Gaza following the unexpected attack by Hamas on October 7.

To strengthen their strategic partnership, American and European leaders aimed to present a united front. President Biden recently connected the two conflicts when urging Americans to support a $106 billion aid package for Ukraine and Israel, encompassing military assistance.

Biden underlined that the EU and US "stood together," offering support to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression and backing Israel following Hamas's attack. EU Council Chief Charles Michel emphasised the forging of a united front to address the world's formidable challenges.

European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen stressed that the events in the Middle East would not deter them from extending unwavering support to Ukraine. EU leaders sought reassurance regarding sustained US support for Ukraine, recognising the United States as the primary supplier of military aid to the nation.

The joint statement released at the end of the summit expressed concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and the necessity to prevent regional escalation, such as a new front involving Hezbollah, backed by Iran from Lebanon.

The ongoing political gridlock in the US Congress for over two weeks may impact the passage of the aid package for Ukraine. Nonetheless, EU leaders expressed confidence that President Biden would do his utmost to secure the necessary assistance.

While the primary focus of the summit was geopolitical, trade tensions between the EU and the US simmered in the background. Both parties aimed to resolve trade disputes, including European steel imports. Although tariffs imposed in 2018 under the previous administration were suspended in 2021, they could be reinstated if no agreement is reached by the end of the year.

Additionally, no consensus was reached on critical minerals sourcing, as per President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), raising concerns within Europe about potential subsidies for clean energy tech and competition with American companies.