Alliances

Russia and China at Once – Part III: The Importance of Alliances (Including Internal)

The United States cannot pursue a strategy capable of deterring and, if necessary, defeating both China and Russia at the same time alone. We need allies.

Iran and al Qaeda: an Unexpected Axis

The connection between al Qaeda and Iran was hardly recognized until the discovery of documents in Bin Laden’s compound in Pakistan

“Economy is Security, Security is Economy”: Will South Korea set an example for other Eastern Asian countries?
“Economy is Security, Security is Economy”: Will South Korea set an example for other Eastern Asian countries?

The fact that President Joe Biden chose South Korea as the first stop of his first Asian tour since his inauguration is significant. Washington and Seoul are seeking to upgrade their military alliance into a “comprehensive global strategic alliance.”

A Blueprint for Defending the Free World through an Alliance of Democracies

In the Free World’s multifaceted response to Putin’s war, a blueprint for a global alliance of democracies is emerging.

NATO Is Still Key to Keeping the Peace in Europe - Russia Ukraine
NATO Is Still Key to Keeping the Peace in Europe

With Ukraine languishing outside the safety of the NATO alliance, the consensus seems to be that there is little the alliance can do as Putin enforces his latter-day Brezhnev Doctrine. That consensus view is wrong.

“We Have Obligations to Our Allies”: Operation Allies Welcome and International Law
“We Have Obligations to Our Allies”: Operation Allies Welcome and International Law

In response to the astonishing fall of Kabul and sudden capitulation of the Afghan government, President Joe Biden ordered Operation Allies Welcome. But did it follow international law?

The Natural Next Step: Afghanistan Withdrawal in Context
The Natural Next Step: Afghanistan Withdrawal in Context

One adjective that should never be used to describe the US retreat from Afghanistan is “surprising.” In fact, what happened in Kabul in 2021 was the natural next step on the inward-turning path Americans began walking in 2009.

China Takes Aim at the Postwar Order
China Takes Aim at the Postwar Order

The People’s Republic of China not only has the intent to build a new world order, but it also has the resources and capabilities to do so—which helps explain why those who designed and uphold the existing world order are answering China’s challenge.

Secretary Antony Blinken and the Battle of Ideas

Few have discussed Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s formative early years of public service prior to joining Biden’s staff, years when our paths crossed.