Policy

Trump: I’m Not Being Tough On Russia Because I Want to Make A Deal

The president, who joked about sinking Moscow’s spy ship off the Atlantic coast, didn’t say what kind of deal he wants.

Policy

What Happens Next Is Up to Republicans

It’s up to them whether a truly independent investigation occurs.

Policy

Trump’s Empty Ultimatum to NATO

Defense Secretary Mattis just called for Europe to increase defense spending or else...what exactly?

Policy

Five Questions Raised by Michael Flynn's Abrupt Departure

Who in the White House knew that the national security adviser had misled Mike Pence, and when? Who will replace him? And what will be the next bombshell?

Policy

Will Trump Repeal Sanctions on Russia? A Conversation with an NSC Planner

We asked Kevin Harrington, deputy assistant to the president for strategic planning, whether he could square the mixed signals coming from the White House.

Policy

Michael Flynn's Disaster

Trump’s national security adviser’s potentially false statements about his pre-inauguration contacts with Russian officials are a major problem.

Ideas

Why Did Trump Pick a Fight with Putin Over the Nuclear Weapons Treaty?

President Trump took a hard line over New START with Russia. It's an odd battle to choose -- and a dangerous one.

Ideas

Trump’s Dangerous 'Dishonest' Message to the Troops

It’s politics when a candidate disparages “the media.” But it’s potentially dangerous when the commander in chief tells U.S. troops not to trust the reporters who cover them.

Ideas

Why are US Forces in Yemen at All?

'The truth of the matter is that America is killing people — terrorists and others — because its leaders don’t know what else to do.'

Policy

The Future Depends on Fixing Readiness Now, Vice Chiefs Tell Lawmakers

Service leaders’ annual pilgrimage to Capitol Hill also serves as Phase One of Mattis’ long-range plan.

Policy

Pentagon Spells Out Details of Troops' New Retirement System

The blended package goes into effect in 2018.

Policy

CIA, ODNI Get Exemption from Trump's Hiring Freeze

Agency leaders are told that if someone would work during a government shutdown, their job can be filled during the freeze.

Ideas

Truth, Trump, and Security: We Need This Independent Commission Into Russian Meddling

It’s not over, yet. We must restore Americans’ trust in us and their government. Here's my plan.

Policy

Defense Department Hiring Freeze Rules Coming Soon

Here are some of the civilian exemptions senators are demanding to Trump's federal freeze-out.

Policy

'We Are Better than this Ban': US Diplomats Plan Official Dissent

White House to State Department: “They should get with the program or they should go.”

Policy

Can Mike Flynn Regain Influence Inside the White House?

Trump’s national security advisor faces challenges ahead in his quest to become part of the president’s decision-making process.

Ideas

We Conservatives Warned You, Trump Will Not Get Better. Here's What You Can Do.

To my friends thinking of serving this administration, either you stand up for your principles and decent behavior, or you go down as a coward or opportunist.

Policy

Trump Wants DHS to Hire 15,000 for Border Security? Not So Fast

The proposed surge would provide assets some agency officials have long requested. It would also enable Trump to fulfill a campaign promise—but it comes with challenges.  

Policy

Trump Has Made an Enemy Out of a Friend

The U.S. is not talking to Mexico, a neighbor, trade partner and trusted ally because of a campaign promise few took seriously.

Policy

'Even a Shining City on a Hill Needs Walls': Senator Tom Cotton

A Republican hawk acclimates to the Trump presidency—and threatens to reconsider the One China policy.