In a scathing criticism of President Joe Biden, Tennessee Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn accused him of being “weak” on America’s adversaries, saying his actions have emboldened what she calls the “new axis of evil.”
Blackburn made these remarks during an appearance on WABC 770 AM’s “Cats Roundtable” with host John Catsimatidis on Sunday. She expressed her concern over the increasing aggression of countries like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea towards the United States, which she believes has been fueled by Biden’s weak stance.
“What worries me tremendously is the aggression coming out of the new Axis of Evil – Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. The pressure they are putting on one another to stand up and fight against the United States is evident,” Blackburn said.
She pointed out that Biden’s failure to hold China accountable for the COVID-19 pandemic, his reluctance to address the trade imbalance with China, and China’s aggression towards Taiwan have all contributed to the country’s audacity to challenge the United States.
In recent months, China has ramped up its military drills and sailed warships near Taiwan, which prompted condemnation from the US and its allies. China’s latest move involved sending 103 military aircraft around Taiwan, including 40 that entered the air-defense identification zone.
Blackburn also criticized Biden’s handling of the Iran nuclear deal, where the US released $6 billion in frozen assets and exchanged five American prisoners for five Iranian prisoners. She believes that this has emboldened Iran, as its President Ebrahim Raisi has stated that the money “belongs to the Iranian people” and they will decide how to use it. Blackburn fears that the money will fund Iran’s nuclear ambitions, rather than helping its people.
Moreover, Blackburn expressed concern over Iran’s alliance with Russia, who have reportedly teamed up to create drones flying over Ukraine, with China providing financial support. She called on the Biden administration to take a tougher stance against these countries that pose a threat to US interests.
She concluded by highlighting North Korea’s recent visit to Russia where leader Kim Jong Un extended a hand of friendship and invited Putin to visit North Korea and witness their latest rocket developments. Blackburn believes this is another alarming sign that requires the Biden administration’s attention.
Blackburn’s remarks serve as a reminder of the current administration’s foreign policy stance, which has been criticized by some as being too weak. The concerns she raised show the growing assertiveness of the “new axis of evil” and the need for the US to maintain a strong stance in the face of these adversaries.
The National Security Council has defended the release of funds to Iran, stating that it will oversee its usage, but Blackburn’s remarks highlight the lack of trust in the Iranian government. As Biden continues to face criticism for his foreign policy, it remains to be seen how his administration will respond to these challenges.
