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The following is a transcript of an interview with Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat from Delaware, that aired on “Face the Nation” on July 9, 2023.
INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT
MARGARET BRENNAN: We are now joined by Senator Chris Coons from Delaware. Good morning, Senator, and welcome.
SENATOR CHRIS COONS: Good morning, Margaret. It’s a pleasure to be here with you.
MARGARET BRENNAN: We have a lot to discuss, but let’s start with China. The United States heavily relies on China, our greatest adversary, for crucial items like missiles, computer chips, and electric vehicles. Shouldn’t we have a domestic industrial policy in place to address this issue?
COONS: Actually, we do have an industrial policy. Margaret, the Chips and Science bill that President Biden signed into law last year, with bipartisan support from Congress, has already resulted in significant investments in onshoring semiconductor chip manufacturing. We have seen a record number of new advanced manufacturing sites in America. While there is still more work to be done, Senator Schumer and Senate Republicans are leading the way to further strengthen our industrial policy and bring back manufacturing. This is a cornerstone of Bidenomics and our efforts to rebuild the economy from the middle out.
MARGARET BRENNAN: But what about the impending export ban on key minerals by China? Where will we get those resources for chip production?
COONS: You’re right, China currently has a strong hold on the processing of strategic critical minerals. However, the administration has already initiated a program involving a dozen countries, our allies and partners, who possess untapped resources. I recently visited Norway as part of a bipartisan trip, and they have an abundance of critical minerals that we need. With a clear plan and sustained bipartisan support, we can transition away from our dangerous dependency on China for these minerals.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Turning to Europe, President Biden is embarking on a trip that includes a stop at NATO. You have been supportive of Sweden’s efforts to join NATO, but Turkey is posing a challenge. Do you think Turkey will back down, and should the US withhold military provisions until they do?
COONS: That remains to be seen. President Biden is personally engaged in diplomatic efforts regarding this matter. We understand the need for security reassurances for Greece, and we continue to provide cutting-edge equipment to them. Sweden has taken steps to address Turkey’s concerns, and I am hopeful for a resolution before the Vilnius Summit. It is essential to add Finland and Sweden to NATO, as it would be a strategic defeat for Putin. Regardless of the outcome in Ukraine, NATO, under President Biden’s leadership, remains stronger than ever.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Speaking of Ukraine, they have also applied for NATO membership. What do they need to do to be admitted, and have you discussed this with President Biden?
COONS: Currently, admitting Ukraine to NATO is not feasible due to the ongoing war that needs to be resolved. Ukraine’s main objective is to become a full member of the European Union, and they are progressing towards that goal. Joining the EU requires improvements in transparency, rule of law, and civil society, which are prerequisites for NATO membership in the future.
MARGARET BRENNAN: President Biden mentioned the possibility of an Israel-style defense assurance for Ukraine. Can you shed light on what that means, considering the significant aid provided to Israel?
COONS: Absolutely. Ukraine needs to have a security guarantee moving forward. For them to be considered for NATO membership, their equipment, training, and military capabilities must meet NATO standards. We are working to assist and train them in this regard. It’s important to note that back in 1994, Ukraine relinquished its nuclear weapons, and in return, received a territorial security guarantee. A similar security guarantee will be necessary for Ukraine post-war, as they continue to bravely defend against Russian aggression.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you anticipate any firm assurances regarding Ukraine’s membership at the upcoming summit?
COONS: The decision to admit new members rests with the 31 NATO nations. While I believe progress will be made regarding Sweden’s accession and our continued support of Ukraine during the counteroffensive, I don’t expect a specific timeline to be established at the Vilnius Summit.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Recently, President Biden approved the provision of cluster munitions to Ukraine, citing their depletion of ammunition. Do you morally support this decision?
COONS: Yes, I do. President Biden carefully considered all aspects before making this difficult decision. There is an urgent need for 155mm artillery munitions, which Ukraine is rapidly depleting in their counteroffensive efforts. They are at risk of losing ground if they run out. While we plan to restart the manufacturing of these munitions at scale, it will take several months. The cluster munitions provided by the US, upon Ukraine’s request and commitment to responsible use and remediation, will prove tactically beneficial against well-entrenched Russian forces. I stand behind the President’s decision.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Switching gears to Iran, there have been recent concerns surrounding the security clearance of Rob Malley, the President’s envoy to Iran. As a key member of Senate Foreign Relations, have you been briefed on this issue?
COONS: I have not been personally briefed on the specifics of Mr. Malley’s security clearance situation. However, there is significant interest and concern within Congress, particularly in the Foreign Relations committee, regarding the status of potential negotiations with Iran. Given the recent revelations of Iran’s actions in providing support to Russia in Ukraine, the situation has become even more complex.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you for joining us, Senator Coons.
COONS: Thank you, Margaret. It was a pleasure to be here.
Note: This interview transcript has been edited for clarity and conciseness.
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