"Now, the future of American policy is up to the American people," Biden said. "This is much more than a political question. It's more than that. It's a national security issue. Don't reduce this to the usual testament that people talk about, issues of being a political campaign."

"It is far too important," he continued. "It's about the world we live in for decades to come. Every American must ask himself or herself. Is the world safer with NATO? Are you safer? Is your family safer?"

With the NATO banner and American flags displayed behind him, Biden recounted this week's NATO summit in Washington and touted the strength of the alliance in the face of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

While he didn't use Donald Trump's name, he invoked him during the remarks.

"Meanwhile, my predecessor, has made it clear he has no commitment to NATO," Biden said. "He has made it clear that he would feel no obligation to honor Article Five. He's already told Putin, I quote, 'Do whatever the hell you want.'"

"In fact, the day after Putin invaded Ukraine, here's what he said: It was genius. It was wonderful. Some of you have forgotten that, but that's exactly what he said. Well, I made it clear, a strong nato is essential to American I believe the obligation of Article Five is sacred," Biden added.

Biden is at the podium to answer reporter questions in his first solo press conference since November 2023, a critical moment for him as he faces growing Democratic pressure to step aside from his campaign.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and National Security Council spokesman John Kirby are in the room as are Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and National security adviser Jake Sullivan.

This is Biden's first solo press conference since the APEC Summit in California eight months ago.