The Biden administration is exploring stricter sanctions on Russia’s oil industry to further cripple its war effort, a move previously resisted due to potential energy price increases. These new measures, currently under development, could involve limitations on certain Russian oil exports. This shift in strategy comes amidst falling global oil prices and concerns about a potential Trump administration pursuing a swift resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, potentially unfavorable to the country. The administration is now willing to risk higher energy costs to counter these threats.
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The Biden administration announced its support for a new Syrian government that renounces terrorism, disarms, and protects minority rights, following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This support will involve collaboration with Syrian groups and regional partners, even potentially including the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebel group, despite its terrorist designation. Simultaneously, Israel launched significant airstrikes in Syria, seizing a Golan Heights buffer zone, actions the White House deemed necessary for national security. The U.S. is navigating this volatile situation while also targeting remaining ISIS fighters and supporting ongoing efforts to secure a Gaza ceasefire.
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The Biden administration’s recent decision to forgive $4.7 billion in loans owed to Ukraine has sparked considerable debate. This move, while seemingly generous, is framed by the administration as a strategic maneuver with several key justifications.
The primary argument centers around preventing former President Trump from using these outstanding loans as leverage against Ukraine. The potential for such influence, especially given the contentious relationship between the two countries, poses a significant national security concern. By removing this leverage point, the administration aims to bolster Ukraine’s sovereignty and prevent potential interference in its affairs.
Further bolstering this justification is the upcoming change in administration.… Continue reading
Florida’s delay of KidCare expansion, impacting 40,000 children, stems from a dispute over a federal rule mandating continuous coverage. The state, having lost a court challenge to this rule, seeks a Trump administration reversal. Florida officials argue the Biden administration’s approval included unnecessary conditions and requested a 30-day extension to coordinate with the incoming administration. This delay exacerbates the situation for affected families, following the recent loss of Medicaid for 532,000 children after the end of pandemic-era coverage.
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In response to Russia’s ongoing aggression, the White House announced a comprehensive strategy to bolster Ukraine’s defense. This includes a significant surge in military aid, encompassing artillery rounds, rockets, and armored vehicles, alongside training for Ukrainian troops outside the country. The plan also involves substantial financial support through loans backed by seized Russian assets and the imposition of new sanctions targeting Russia’s war capabilities. This multifaceted approach aims to strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating position and potentially pave the way for a future settlement.
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Facing a potential halt in military aid under a Trump presidency, the Biden administration is expediting a $725 million weapons package to Ukraine. This includes anti-air and anti-armor systems, artillery, and HIMARS rockets, bolstering Ukraine’s defenses against Russian advances in eastern Ukraine and a potential assault in the Kursk region. The aid, utilizing Presidential drawdown authority, aims to strengthen Ukraine’s position before the end of Biden’s term. Additionally, the package controversially includes anti-personnel mines and enables US contractors to repair damaged equipment in Ukraine.
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This Giving Tuesday, support the *Washington Monthly*’s mission to promote well-conceived policy ideas amidst a surge of misinformation. Unlike many publications, the *Washington Monthly* prioritizes policy analysis, offering crucial insights into building a better America. In contrast to previous administrations, the Biden administration boasts a remarkable record of ethical conduct, with zero indictments or convictions of any political appointees. This stands in sharp contrast to previous administrations, which faced numerous indictments, convictions, and resignations due to ethical breaches. Support the *Washington Monthly* financially to continue this vital work.
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Biden’s recent move to eliminate subminimum wages for individuals with disabilities marks a significant step toward achieving wage equality. This decision, a fulfillment of a campaign promise, is poised to spark considerable debate and legal challenges. The Department of Labor’s year-long review of the Depression-era program culminated in a proposed rule that would halt the issuance of certificates allowing subminimum wages and initiate a three-year phaseout for existing certificates.
This proposed rule will be subject to a public comment period, extending until January 17, 2025. This timeframe places the final decision in the hands of the incoming administration, leaving the future of the rule uncertain and contingent on their response to public commentary and potential legal challenges.… Continue reading
President Biden pardoned his son, Hunter, citing politically motivated charges and selective prosecution. This action drew swift condemnation from Republicans, who accused the president of hypocrisy and avoiding accountability. Simultaneously, the president-elect, Trump, is reportedly installing loyalists into key positions, including nominating Charles Kushner as Ambassador to France and potentially replacing FBI Director Wray with Kash Patel. These appointments, along with the pardon, demonstrate a pattern of prioritizing personal loyalty and retribution over democratic norms and institutional integrity. The overall narrative highlights a deeply partisan environment characterized by mutual animosity and disregard for established procedures.
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President Biden’s pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, for federal gun and tax charges, issued days before sentencing, sparked immediate outrage among Congressional Republicans. Many Republicans, including House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, accused Biden of lying about his intentions and using his power for familial gain, citing the pardon as an admission of guilt. Criticism also came from some Democrats, who expressed concern over the precedent set by the pardon. The pardon encompassed offenses committed between 2014 and 2024, encompassing those prosecuted by Special Counsel David C. Weiss. The decision contradicts Biden’s previous public statements against pardoning his son.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood