Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Bob Woodward, War (2024) was published well before the 2024 presidential election and involves a detailed examination of the Biden administration’s efforts to navigate complex global conflicts and domestic political challenges. Woodward is renowned for his extensive coverage of US presidencies and high-stakes political events, and he leverages his expertise to provide an insider’s view of the dynamics that shape modern geopolitics. This political nonfiction work covers pivotal topics such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Middle Eastern tensions, and the strategic maneuvers leading up to the 2024 US presidential election.

Through research, firsthand accounts, and direct interviews with key figures like President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Woodward uncovers the delicate balance between democracy and autocracy, explores the significance of back-channel diplomacy, and examines the ethical responsibilities inherent in political leadership. War chronicles major international crises and delves into the internal pressures within the Biden administration, offering profound insights into the issues involved in maintaining global stability in an increasingly polarized world.

This guide refers to the 2024 Simon & Schuster e-book edition.

Content Warning: The source text and this guide include discussions of military conflict, political violence, and humanitarian crises.

Summary

The narrative begins with the events of January 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the US Capitol, an act fueled by former President Donald Trump’s refusal to concede the 2020 election. This incident set the tone for the early challenges that Biden must had to face as he strove to stabilize the administration and restore democratic norms. Woodward captures the immediate aftermath of this day, highlighting Biden’s efforts to unify a fractured nation while addressing emerging geopolitical threats.

A significant portion of War focuses on the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. In early 2021, President Biden and his national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, became acutely aware of Russia’s military buildup on Ukraine’s borders, which was reminiscent of Cold War-era provocations. Despite initial diplomatic efforts that included a summit with President Vladimir Putin in Geneva, the simmering tensions culminated in Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Woodward details the Biden administration’s strategic responses, including the provision of military aid to Ukraine, the formation of international coalitions, and the implementation of stringent economic sanctions against Russia. The book underscores the difficulties of supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty while avoiding direct military confrontation with Russia, illustrating the delicate balance of power and the high stakes involved.

Parallel to the Ukraine crisis, War details the intensifying Israel-Gaza conflict. Woodward examines the subsequent Israeli military response and resulting humanitarian crisis in Gaza after a surprise attack by Hamas in October 2023. The narrative highlights President Biden’s diplomatic efforts to mediate between Israel and other Middle Eastern leaders, aiming to prevent further escalation and promote humanitarian aid. Key figures such as Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Vice President Kamala Harris played vital roles in these diplomatic maneuvers, navigating the intricate web of regional alliances and international pressures.

Domestic politics also take center stage in War, particularly as the 2024 presidential election loomed. The book portrays the deepening political polarization within the United States, exacerbated by Donald Trump’s continued influence over the Republican Party. Trump’s potential run for the presidency in 2024 and his relentless claims of a “stolen” election introduced additional layers of tension. Woodward explores how Biden’s administration grappled with these internal divisions while maintaining focus on foreign policy challenges. The narrative captures key moments, such as Trump’s interactions with influential figures like Senator Lindsey Graham and the strategic decisions surrounding the election campaign.

Throughout the book, Woodward emphasizes the ethical and strategic dilemmas faced by Biden and his national security team. Figures like CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) Director Bill Burns, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, and National Intelligence Director Avril Haines are portrayed as instrumental in shaping the administration’s responses to global threats. Their efforts to balance military support with diplomatic restraint reflect the broader theme of maintaining democratic values amid rising autocratic pressures.

War also sheds light on the personal dimensions of political leadership. President Biden’s interactions with allies, his private reflections on his son Hunter’s legal troubles, and the emotional toll of leading a nation through multiple crises provide a nuanced portrayal of the burdens of office. These personal elements humanize the political narrative, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those in power.

In the Epilogue, Woodward reflects on the Biden administration’s legacy, highlighting the administration’s commitment to intelligence-driven decision-making and ethical governance. Despite setbacks and ongoing conflicts, the book suggests that the Biden team’s dedication to democratic principles and global stability may leave a lasting impact on US foreign policy and international relations.

Overall, War is a comprehensive account of a critical period in American and global politics. Through research and firsthand accounts, Woodward captures the essence of leadership under pressure, the challenges of international diplomacy, and the enduring struggle between democratic ideals and autocratic ambitions. The book offers valuable insights into the pivotal events and key figures that shaped the Biden administration’s approach to war and peace, providing a thorough understanding of the intricate interplay between domestic politics and global conflicts.