Ideas
The Administration Must Explain Its Use-of-Force Theories. Today.
That's not just a good idea; it's the law. A report to Congress is due on Monday.
Policy
Trump Says His New Tariffs Are About National Security. They’re Not.
Few people believe him, and that’s a problem for him—and the world.
Ideas
Whatever Happened to Trump's Counterterrorism Strategy?
His approach borrows from his predecessors’, while exacerbating their worst, most counterproductive tendencies.
Ideas
The US Will Spend $500M on Syrian Kurds This Year. For What?
The Trump administration is embarking on a state-building project with no clear strategy, benchmarks, or goals.
Ideas
Russia Is a Great Power Once Again
Putin’s Syria intervention saved Assad. But is he ready for what comes next?
Ideas
The Dark Arts of Foreign Influence-Peddling
The Mueller investigation is showing the extent of Russian operations. But its real import extends far beyond that.
Ideas
Global Elites Cannot Save a World In Turmoil
Last weekend’s security conference in Munich was a stark reminder that this class has nothing of substance to offer a world in turmoil.
Ideas
Don't Waste the New US Water-Security Strategy
President Trump should order the inclusion of water issues — a major driver of security problems — in the national defense and security strategies.
Ideas
The US Is Drifting Toward War With a NATO Ally
It's not too late to stem Turkey's turn toward Russia — and defuse a World War I-style conflict.
Ideas
How to Keep US Missile Defense on the Right Track
Use the coming funding boost to smooth the development of a new kill vehicle and increase GMD testing in general.
Threats
When the Islamic State Came to Libya
Since the fall of Qaddafi, the war-torn country’s militias have sought to contain extremism. But at what cost?
Threats
Peace Through Bombings: The US Strategy in Afghanistan
The goal of negotiating with the Taliban is at odds with President Trump’s statements.
Threats
Mattis: New Sea-Launched Cruise Missile Is a Bargaining Chip
But don’t call the low-yield option a ‘tactical nuclear weapon’ — it’s still strategic, he says.
Ideas
An Advise-and-Assist Commander Has Advice for the US Army's New Partner-Trainers
Security Force Assistance Brigades, or SFABs, are a great concept, but even the best ideas have limitations and room for improvement.
Ideas
Trump’s National-Security Strategy Is Focused on Great Powers. He Isn’t.
On Tuesday, the president rushed past Russia and China to talk about immigrants, terrorism, and North Korea.
Ideas
If We're Going to Export More US Arms, Let's Do It Smarter
Here are some ways to help ensure that rising sales don't undermine American security.
Ideas
America's Longest War—and the Ally That Fuels It
How Pakistan has perpetuated the Afghan conflict.
Ideas
We Don't Need a Bigger Nuclear Button
The plan outlined in a draft of the Nuclear Posture Review would cost trillions of dollars — and make Americans no safer.
Policy
Mattis: Pentagon Shifting Focus to Great Power Competition — ‘Not Terrorism’
The first national defense strategy in 10 years puts on paper what Mattis, McMaster have signaled for months: the U.S. is refocused on China and Russia.
Ideas