In April 2022, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin made a pointed statement about the US’s aims in the Ukraine conflict, clarifying that beyond supporting Ukraine, the US also sought to diminish Russia’s military capability to prevent future aggression. This marked a significant shift in American strategy from defense to a more assertive stance aimed at long-term deterrence. Austin gathered defense ministers from 40 countries at Germany’s Ramstein Air Base, where they agreed on extensive support for Ukraine, aligning with NATO standards. The meeting underscored the fact that although NATO membership for Ukraine was not an option, the alliance would treat Ukraine as an allied force, providing coordinated military support. This support, ironically, made Putin’s fears of a NATO-aligned Ukraine a reality as Ukraine’s capabilities expanded.

In the spring of 2022, President Biden shared a quiet, personal evening with a friend at the White House. During their dinner, his son Hunter joined, expressing anxiety about the implications of the upcoming midterm elections, as Republican control of Congress could intensify investigations into his life. President Biden listened wearily before leading his friend on an informal tour of the White House, sharing stories about his family, particularly his late daughter, Naomi, and his father.