Biden to Meet German President at White House on Friday

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is embarking on a surprise visit to the United States on Friday, coinciding with German-American Day.

During this unanticipated trip, Steinmeier is scheduled to meet with US President Joe Biden in Washington.

The White House has issued a statement, affirming the enduring strength of the transatlantic relationship between the two leaders. 

Key topics on the agenda include the defense of democratic principles and the shared commitment to supporting Ukraine in its resistance against Russia's invasion.

Steinmeier's office has disclosed that the visit was proposed by President Biden and marks the first official meeting between the two leaders since assuming their respective presidencies.

German-American Day, observed on October 6th, commemorates the arrival of a significant number of German settlers in Philadelphia in 1683.

This visit takes place amid growing concerns within the European Union and the NATO military alliance regarding the sustainability of US support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Over the weekend, the US Congress passed a stopgap funding bill, notably lacking further assistance for Ukraine.

While this omission does not immediately disrupt US aid to Ukraine, European partners are apprehensive that previously allocated funds may run dry.

Biden has sought to reassure NATO allies that additional aid will be approved.

However, the recent removal of Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy has resulted in a legislative standstill, with conservative Republicans voicing objections to the funding bill and accusing the former speaker of prioritizing Democratic interests over his own party's.