Is the US still the ‘indispensable’ power?

Biden makes the case for America’s global leadership. At a time of growing challenges both abroad and at home, the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine shed light on its ability to perform that role.

US President Joe Biden delivers an address to the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, on Oct 19. PHOTO: REUTERS
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

United States presidents usually give speeches from the Oval Office only at critical moments in their nation’s life.

Such a moment came for Mr Joe Biden last Thursday when, for only the second time in his presidency, he addressed the American people at what he called “an inflexion point in history, one of those moments where the decisions we make today are going to determine the future for decades to come”.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.