Ideas

Trump OKs Ukraine Aid — But That’s Not the Right Choice

America doesn’t gain anything by escalating an unwinnable war on Russia’s border.

Ideas

It’s High Time for Germany to Fund, and Fix, Its Military

The country is far from NATO’s 2% budget guideline, and its defense establishment is rife with dysfunction.

Ideas

The US Protects the Global Commons. Others Can Police Its Choke Points

Trump's not wrong when he says European, Mideast, and Asian nations should do more to protect Gulf shipping.

Ideas

Europe Should Do More for Regional Security — Starting with Libya

Allied “burden-sharing” ought not be about financial benchmarks, but about U.S. partners’ investment in their own regions’ security.

Ideas

The Senate Takes a Step to Void America’s Blank Check to the Saudis

Washington can continue to work with Riyadh, but it need never again accept flagrant violations of human rights, international norms, or U.S. national interests.

Ideas

Trump’s Iran Strategy Is No Strategy At All

It's a laundry list of grievances, some get-tough rhetoric, and a quixotic retreat from diplomacy that ties one hand behind the president's back.

Ideas

Want to Reduce Iran’s and al-Qaeda’s Sway in Yemen? End the War

The US-Saudi-UAE-Yemeni-government plan to double down on a military solution is a recipe for disaster.

Ideas

Don't Let Trump Fool You, He's Still No Interventionist

Despite the cruise missiles in Syria and MOAB in Afghanistan, if you’re anticipating another military campaign the size of Libya’s in 2011, prepare to be disappointed.

Ideas

Americans Are For Smart Engagement

Polls show the public wants all options explored, including diplomacy, before military force is even considered.

Ideas

Rein in the National Security Council

Created as a coordinating body, the NSC has become a policymaking powerhouse whose White House status hides it from oversight.

Ideas

Afghanistan: It’s Only Getting Worse

Is pouring billions more dollars into the country and keeping thousands of U.S. troops there the best way to keep us safe?

Ideas

It's Time for America to Distance Itself From Saudi Actions in Yemen

Riyadh is killing civilians with American help, and it’s jeopardizing the international credibility of the United States.

Policy

The 3 Worst National Security Ideas Out of the Iowa Debate

A closer look at the candidates’ remarks on foreign policy reveal plenty of bumper-sticker slogans, but few serious proposals that could actually help keep the country safe.

Ideas

The United Nations Must Clamp Down on ISIS Oil Profits

With little power to stop Islamic State administrators from taxing subjugated populations, the world community must focus on limiting petrochemical revenues.

Ideas

Syrian Peace Prospects Now Hinge on Long-Time Foes Saudi Arabia and Iran

Fighting in Syria cannot be resolved without some kind of accommodation between Riyadh and Tehran—both of whom have used proxies to prolong the war.

Policy

Is Jim Webb the Ultimate Democratic Dark Horse?

The Virginia Democrat could end up posing a steep electoral challenge to Hillary Clinton.

Ideas

What Did Saudi Arabia Achieve in Yemen?

Hundreds of air strikes later, Hadi remains in Riyadh and the Houthis remain near Aden. Riyadh needs a new approach.