### Biden Administration Scrambles to Secure Key Policies Before Trump's Return

Despondent officials within the Biden administration are grappling with ways to secure their national security priorities before president-elect Donald Trump assumes office in January. From funneling funds to Ukraine to imposing sanctions on extremist Israeli settlers, various strategies are being considered. However, a concrete plan to safeguard President Joe Biden's significant policies against a possible dismantling by Trump is not yet in place, according to a senior administration official.

Some officials harbor skepticism about the effectiveness of any such plan. Multiple current and former U.S. officials shared the belief that Trump would swiftly halt or reverse much of Biden's initiatives. His broad executive authority, coupled with substantial support in Congress and the judiciary, means almost nothing would be able to stop him. "You really can't 'Trump-proof,'" one official stated, noting that you could at best delay Trump's moves rather than prevent them outright.

Biden and his team are already making efforts to assist Ukraine, working fervently to ship the remaining $6 billion in weapons and equipment allocated by Congress. The fate of these shipments under Trump's administration remains uncertain, though the Pentagon might not manage to fulfill all pledges by Inauguration Day due to logistical challenges. Trump's actions towards these promised weapons could further strain Ukraine's defense capabilities.

Other avenues the Biden administration is exploring include reinforcing the refugee resettlement program and initiating measures at the United Nations against Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Nevertheless, such moves are likely to be swiftly overturned by the incoming Trump administration. During his last term, Trump successfully pushed through several policy decisions that Biden could not reverse for political and other reasons. These included declaring China's actions against Uyghur Muslims a genocide and adding Cuba to the state sponsor of terrorism list.

Despite these challenges, the Biden administration hasn't given up. Officials insist they won't spend the remaining months idly. Yet, they recognize the considerable power Trump will wield from day one of his term. There may, however, be areas where Trump's views align with last-minute Biden decisions, such as policies tough on China.

The uncertain future has already caused waves of fear among federal workers, who face the possibility of staff cuts and loyalty tests under Trump's administration. Lists of career government employees targeted for firing have reportedly already been drafted by Trump allies, evoking an atmosphere of anxiety within federal agencies.

As the Biden administration contemplates its next move, the clock is ticking, and the political landscape remains fraught with uncertainty.