The role of the Greek diaspora, the shortcomings of the Biden administration, the excesses of the Trump camp, Greece’s relationship with the Greek-American community, and international developments were among the topics discussed with Jake Sotiriadis, a strategy advisor at the State Department.

We met him at the World War II Memorial in Washington, with the iconic Lincoln Memorial standing tall in the background on a sunny day—typical of the weather we’ve had during our assignment in the U.S. capital, which has surprised locals who are usually wearing heavy coats at this time of year.

Speaking to protothema.gr, Sotiriadis clarified that regardless of whether Kamala Harris or Donald Trump wins, the United States will remain the world’s strongest country. Regarding the issues that concern Americans and will influence the election, he emphasized that the economy and inflation are high on the agenda, especially as research shows a vast majority of citizens believe the country is headed in the wrong direction.

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U.S. Elections 2024: Jake Sotiriadis on protothema.gr

Referring to the war in Ukraine and the Middle East, he predicted that a win for Kamala Harris would likely continue the Biden administration’s policies. Specifically regarding Ukraine, he noted that what remains unseen is a prospect for peace—a vision for the period following the end of the war. “I’m not sure to what extent American citizens are willing to continue supporting the war in Ukraine without a foreseeable solution,” he remarked.

On Greek-American relations, he pointed out that Greece has the potential to be a global power, given the worldwide Greek diaspora, which can and should play a significant role. He also emphasized that Greek-American relations are at a very good level and will likely remain so, noting that he wouldn’t be surprised if the U.S. and Greece eventually develop a special relationship akin to that between Washington and London.