Biden faces test of dedication to Ukraine — and democracy

By CHRIS MEGERIAN
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — For much of his political career, Joe Biden has watched democracy expand in Europe. Now that he’s president, it could be rolled back in dramatic fashion if Russia decides to launch a new, expanded invasion of Ukraine. The threat represents a test of Biden’s approach placing the defense of democracy at the center of his administration. It also could devastate a country that he spent years working to help battle corruption and Moscow’s aggression. And although Biden has tried to focus his foreign policy on countering China’s expanding influence, a peaceful and democratic Europe remains central to his worldview.