The rhetorical dimension of the justification for the absence of direct military support for Ukraine in Joe Biden’s statements

Marta Kobylska

doi:10.29107//rr2026.1.4

Res Rhetorica Apr 2026 OA PDF

The rhetorical dimension of the justification for the absence of direct military support for Ukraine in Joe Biden’s statements

Marta Kobylska University of Rzeszów

Abstract

This article investigates the motivation informing President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.’s rhetoric regarding America’s lack of a direct military response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. Employing Kenneth Burke’s pentad as its analytical lens, this study identifies how the president attempted to shape public opinion through his linguistic choices and selective interpretation of events. Biden’s rhetoric justifying the US’ non-military reaction to the conflict is found to reflect realism, and supports the claim that the US approach regarding the situation in Ukraine is an action policy. Furthermore, the results provide insight into the understanding of the working of the no-use-of-force rhetoric within the context of the still evolving post-Cold War world order.

Journal: Res Rhetorica
Published: 2026-04-07
DOI: 10.29107//rr2026.1.4
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Topics: modern rhetorical theory rhetorical criticism editorial matter
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The rhetorical dimension of the justification for the absence of direct military support for Ukraine in Joe Biden’s statements

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