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Start for freeThe Unprecedented Scope of Hunter Biden's Pardon
President Joe Biden recently issued a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, that has caught the attention of legal analysts and political commentators alike. The pardon's extensive nature, covering a period from 2014 to the present, has raised eyebrows and prompted discussions about its implications for both domestic politics and international relations.
A Decade-Long Coverage
The pardon's starting point of 2014 is particularly noteworthy. This year marked a significant turning point in Ukrainian history, with the Maidan coup resulting in the overthrow of President Yanukovych and the installation of a new government aligned with US interests. It was during this tumultuous period that Hunter Biden became involved with Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company, landing a lucrative position on its board.
Unprecedented in Recent History
Legal experts, including those from traditionally left-leaning publications like Politico, have described this pardon as the most sweeping they've seen in generations. Its expansive nature goes far beyond the two offenses for which Hunter Biden has been charged and convicted - tax issues and gun possession.
The Burisma Connection and Beyond
The pardon's coverage of the entire Burisma affair is particularly significant. Hunter Biden's involvement with the Ukrainian energy company has been a source of controversy and speculation for years, with questions raised about potential conflicts of interest given his father's role as Vice President at the time.
Broader Implications
Beyond Burisma, the pardon appears to cover a wide range of Hunter Biden's activities, including his business dealings in China. This broad scope has led some observers to suggest that the pardon effectively shields not just Hunter Biden but potentially Joe Biden himself from future legal scrutiny.
The 'Big Guy' and Potential Self-Pardon
References in various emails to a figure known as the "big guy," widely believed to be Joe Biden, have fueled speculation about the former Vice President's potential involvement in his son's business dealings. By pardoning Hunter Biden for such a wide range of potential offenses, some argue that President Biden has effectively granted himself a form of immunity from prosecution.
Legal Ramifications
The sweeping nature of the pardon makes it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to bring legal action against Joe Biden for any potential involvement in the activities covered by the pardon. This is because Hunter Biden, who acted as a potential agent or intermediary, can no longer be prosecuted for these actions.
Implications for Investigations
While the pardon doesn't prevent further investigation into the matters it covers, it significantly reduces the likelihood of any meaningful legal consequences. This raises questions about the future of ongoing and potential investigations into the Biden family's activities.
Potential for Impeachment?
Some legal scholars have pointed out that the precedent set by Democrats in 2021 - impeaching a president after leaving office - could theoretically be applied to Joe Biden. However, the practical and political hurdles to such an action remain substantial.
Impact on US-Ukraine Relations
The timing and scope of this pardon may signal a shift in the Biden family's, and potentially the Democratic Party's, involvement in Ukrainian affairs.
End of an Era
The pardon could mark the end of a period characterized by close ties between certain US political figures and Ukrainian business interests. This shift may have significant implications for the power dynamics within Ukraine itself.
Oligarchs and Protection
The concept of "krysha" (protection) has been a crucial element in post-Soviet politics and business. With the apparent withdrawal of US influence, Ukrainian oligarchs may find themselves seeking new sources of protection, potentially leading to increased internal conflicts.
Biden's Final Moves in Ukraine
In the context of Biden's presidency coming to an end, several recent actions related to Ukraine take on new significance:
- Authorization of long-range missile strikes into Russian territory
- Efforts to secure additional billions in aid for Ukraine
- Discussions about the potential use of frozen Russian assets
These actions, combined with the sweeping pardon, suggest a concerted effort to "close the books" on the administration's Ukraine policy.
Buying Silence?
Some analysts speculate that these final moves, including the missile strikes and financial aid, may be intended as a form of payoff to Ukrainian interests. The goal could be to secure their silence regarding past dealings and to maintain a semblance of support for Ukraine in the face of a failing strategy.
Looking to the Future
As the Biden administration prepares to leave office, several key questions remain:
- Will the full truth about the Biden family's involvement in Ukraine ever come to light?
- How will the power dynamics in Ukraine shift in the absence of strong US backing?
- What will be the long-term implications of this pardon for US politics and foreign policy?
While immediate answers may not be forthcoming, history suggests that the full story will eventually emerge, even if it takes years or decades for all the details to be uncovered.
Conclusion
The sweeping pardon granted to Hunter Biden represents a significant moment in US politics and international relations. Its implications extend far beyond the immediate legal protection it provides, potentially reshaping the landscape of US-Ukraine relations and setting new precedents in the use of presidential pardoning power.
As the Biden administration enters its final days, the full impact of this decision remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that it marks a turning point in a complex saga that has intertwined American politics, international diplomacy, and personal business dealings in unprecedented ways.
The coming months and years will likely bring further revelations and analyses as historians, legal scholars, and political commentators continue to unravel the complex web of events surrounding the Biden family's involvement in Ukraine and beyond. While the immediate legal consequences may be limited by this pardon, the political and historical implications will continue to unfold for years to come.
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