Зовнішньополітична стратегія США щодо України в період адміністрацій Демократичної партії Б. Обами та Дж. Байдена

Andriy Buzarov

doi:10.31861/mhpi2025.52.10-24

Authors

Andriy Buzarov Kuras Institute of Political and Ethnic Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5085-8340

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31861/mhpi2025.52.10-24

Keywords:

US, Ukraine, Obama Administration, Biden Administration, Russian Aggression, Strategic Partnership, Democratic Party

Abstract

This study investigates the evolution and transformation of the United States’ foreign policy strategy toward Ukraine during the two Democratic Party administrations: Barack Obama (2009-2017) and Joe Biden (2021-2025). The paper conducts a comparative analysis of the strategic approaches employed by both administrations in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, security, and democratic development amidst ongoing Russian aggression. The research methodology employs a historical-comparative analysis, focusing on the key decisions, strategic documents (National Security Strategies), and diplomatic actions taken in response to critical events, namely the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the 2022 full-scale invasion.

The analysis reveals a significant policy shift: the Obama administration initially prioritized diplomatic engagement with Russia, pursuing a «reset» policy and displaying caution in providing lethal aid following the 2014 aggression. This approach was largely influenced by the perceived need to focus on other global challenges (e.g., pivot to Asia) and a desire to avoid direct military confrontation. However, the subsequent Biden administration (with Biden’s prior experience as Vice President handling the Ukraine file) adopted a policy of resolute commitment, viewing the defense of Ukraine as existential to European security and the broader confrontation between democracy and autocracy.

The Biden strategy transitioned rapidly into a strategic partnership, characterized by unprecedented military and economic assistance coordinated through formats like the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (Ramstein format). This dramatic change reflects the impact of systemic shifts in international relations, particularly the escalation of the great-power competition with both the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China, which positioned Ukraine as a key bulwark for Western democracies.

The study concludes that despite the tactical differences between the administrations – from Obama’s initial measured response to Biden’s full engagement – the overarching strategic continuity of US foreign policy remains. The support for Ukraine has become integral to the core US objective of maintaining a rules-based international order, solidifying Ukraine’s role as a critical partner in the Euro-Atlantic security architecture.

Author Biography

Andriy Buzarov, Kuras Institute of Political and Ethnic Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine

Candidate of Philosophical Sciences, doctoral student

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