A top meeting in Washington framed by the 75th anniversary of the defense alliance. That was the intention, at least, for NATO.
The host of the event, US President Joe Biden, has reason to worry already before the party starts.
The Washingtonians are not only plagued by a sweltering 35-degree heat wave. When this week's NATO meeting now begins, a large area in the central parts of the American capital will be completely closed off to residents, with barricaded subway stations and a noticeable security presence.
The host, President Joe Biden, has other things to worry about. When he receives over 30 leaders from NATO member countries, including Sweden, there is simultaneously significant political turbulence at home.
The question everyone is asking
None of the guests are likely to be impolite enough to ask about the 81-year-old's health, but that is precisely the question everyone is asking.
After what has been described as a catastrophic debate against Donald Trump, Biden's condition has been questioned, and questions have been raised about whether he should simply hand over to another Democratic candidate in the fight against Trump.
Must show strength
Biden himself has tried to shake off the criticism, among other things in an interview with the TV channel ABC, but the NATO meeting will now be an opportunity for him to prove himself, according to many analysts.
It's an opportunity for him to show strength and energy and emphasize his commitment, says Ian Brzezinski at the think tank Atlantic Council to the news agency AP.
In addition to an appearance by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, the first day of the meeting will focus on celebrating NATO's 75th anniversary. Biden and other leaders will participate in a ceremony at the very auditorium where the NATO treaty was signed in 1949. The top meeting will continue until Thursday.
