Two years in the White House

After two years at the helm of the world's most powerful institution, Joe Biden reaches the halfway point of his term in office with important chiaroscuros in his foreign policy. 

Among the most negative points of his administration, it is obvious that the painful withdrawal of his troops in Afghanistan projected an image of extreme weakness. Today, the Asian country is subjected to a Taliban regime of terror in which there has been a terrible regression in women's rights. On top of this, a humanitarian crisis is ravaging the Afghan people and aid organisations are finding it extremely difficult to operate on the ground. 

Nor is the Biden administration's low profile vis-à-vis the cruel dictatorship of the ayatollahs very remarkable. One would expect the US to give more decisive support to the thousands of young Iranians who are risking their lives to bring about real change in their lives. 

On the positive side, however, is the commitment to Ukraine. The very substantial arms shipments, now reinforced by Abrams tanks, and the strong political and financial support for Zelenski, are proving simply indispensable in protecting Ukraine, and thus Europe, from brutal Russian aggression. 

We should also note that Biden's tone with NATO has, predictably, improved significantly from that of the Trump Administration. In this sense, it must be demanded that all relations damaged as a result of his predecessor be restored. In the case of the EU, the road to repair will still be a long one. 

Ahead, the longest-serving president in the history of his country can look forward to numerous challenges that will not make his stay in the White House easy. The revelation that he had confidential documents in his private home has led to the Justice Department's appointment of a special prosecutor. 

The latter, as Trump, Hillary and Bill Clinton know, could be a real headache. The investigation is expected to last for months and will be under constant media scrutiny, so expect difficult days for the president. 

In addition, the so-called Freedom Caucus, that eccentric group of pro-Trump congressmen, will do everything possible to get the House of Representatives to investigate not only Biden, but also his entourage. One of his sons, Hunter, who is notorious for his alcohol and drug problems, will provide many an afternoon of glory for the Republicans. 

And as the next two years in the life of an octogenarian leader unfold, the political situation will continue to simmer in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election. The Democrats have a very poor bench and the Republicans are heading for a brutal confrontation between "Trumpism" and his opponents.