Washington wanted the United States to remain neutral in foreign affairs following the French Revolution due to concerns that honoring an alliance treaty with France would compromise neutrality. He issued the Neutrality Proclamation stating the US would not support either side in the war between France and England and forbade Americans from aiding either country. However, remaining neutral was difficult as warring European nations seized American ships. John Jay negotiated Jay's Treaty with Britain to address some issues but it did not fully protect neutral American shipping rights. In his Farewell Address, Washington advised staying out of European affairs.
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