Focus on the BIG picture.
Thursday, Feb 19, 2026
Outside the box.
Antony Blinken Considers His Legacy as His Time as U.S. Secretary of State Draws to a Close
As his time in office draws to a close, Blinken reflects on his long career, significant foreign policy moments, and future opportunities.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has wrapped up his last international trip as his tenure draws to a close, reflecting on a diplomatic career spanning over thirty years.
During his time in office, Blinken traveled more than a million miles and recently completed visits to Seoul, Tokyo, Paris, and Rome, marking his final major engagements.
In an interview with CBS News' Martha Teichner, Blinken reflected on key moments from his time in office, including his influence on U.S. foreign policy, his close partnership with President Joe Biden, and his defense of the Biden administration's legacy.
Significant issues discussed included Russia's aggression in Ukraine and U.S. efforts to lead NATO's response, along with ongoing challenges in the Middle East, particularly U.S. relations with Israel amid the Gaza conflict.
Blinken emphasized the critical role of U.S. leadership globally, warning that without American involvement, the global balance of power could shift in ways misaligned with U.S. interests and values.
He pointed out the $102 billion in U.S. aid to Ukraine, stressing the importance of sharing the burden with allies.
The Secretary also reflected on his personal journey, recounting his father's role as U.S. Ambassador to Hungary and his stepfather's survival of the Holocaust.
He expressed a profound connection to American freedom, influenced by his family's experiences.
As Blinken prepares to step down, he acknowledged the challenges of his term, from the tumultuous U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan to difficult dealings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
He remains hopeful for a ceasefire agreement in Gaza before the next U.S. president takes office, emphasizing that the ultimate aim is lasting change in people's lives.
A mainstay in U.S. diplomacy for years, Blinken remains intent on delivering results in his final days as Secretary of State, recognizing that while acknowledgment is gratifying, his work is far from over.
During his time in office, Blinken traveled more than a million miles and recently completed visits to Seoul, Tokyo, Paris, and Rome, marking his final major engagements.
In an interview with CBS News' Martha Teichner, Blinken reflected on key moments from his time in office, including his influence on U.S. foreign policy, his close partnership with President Joe Biden, and his defense of the Biden administration's legacy.
Significant issues discussed included Russia's aggression in Ukraine and U.S. efforts to lead NATO's response, along with ongoing challenges in the Middle East, particularly U.S. relations with Israel amid the Gaza conflict.
Blinken emphasized the critical role of U.S. leadership globally, warning that without American involvement, the global balance of power could shift in ways misaligned with U.S. interests and values.
He pointed out the $102 billion in U.S. aid to Ukraine, stressing the importance of sharing the burden with allies.
The Secretary also reflected on his personal journey, recounting his father's role as U.S. Ambassador to Hungary and his stepfather's survival of the Holocaust.
He expressed a profound connection to American freedom, influenced by his family's experiences.
As Blinken prepares to step down, he acknowledged the challenges of his term, from the tumultuous U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan to difficult dealings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
He remains hopeful for a ceasefire agreement in Gaza before the next U.S. president takes office, emphasizing that the ultimate aim is lasting change in people's lives.
A mainstay in U.S. diplomacy for years, Blinken remains intent on delivering results in his final days as Secretary of State, recognizing that while acknowledgment is gratifying, his work is far from over.
