Category: War, Defense & Security

US and Ukrainian flags flying side-by-side on a pole, with the dome of the US Capitol Building blurred in the background

The Illusion of Peace: Why Washington’s Rush to Deal Risks a Continental Collapse

The current diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire in Ukraine seem more focused on creating a favorable public image than achieving true stability. The Trump administration’s push for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict appears motivated by a desire for a political legacy rather than the realities on the ground. By seeking a quick solution instead of a sustainable security framework, the U.S. risks providing the Kremlin with a strategic advantage, potentially destabilizing the European Union and leaving Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks.

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A collection of heavy machine guns and tactical rifles displayed on a table, seized from cartels

US ‘War on Cartels’ Sparks Constitutional Crisis Over Illegal Kill Orders

The Trump administration’s use of military force against Latin American drug trafficking has raised concerns of a constitutional crisis. Reports of “double-tap” strikes on survivors and orders to “kill them all” blur the lines between law enforcement and armed conflict. This militarized counter-narcotics strategy risks undermining legal standards for U.S. military actions and could set a perilous international precedent for lethal force.

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Trump and Netanyahu

Trump’s Gaza Stabilization Force Faces ‘Peace Enforcement’ Deadlock

The adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2803 signifies a diplomatic win for the Trump administration, endorsing the “20-point plan” for Gaza. However, the initiative faces challenges due to major Arab powers’ refusal to participate in “peace enforcement” against Hamas, which may hinder the deployment of the authorized International Stabilization Force (ISF) aimed at securing the region.

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Deterrence Runs on Rare Earths

Deterrence Runs on Rare Earths

The future of deterrence won’t be decided by tanks or troops alone—but by tiny, rare earth elements that power AI, drones, and defense systems. The United States’ strategic edge depends on securing what’s buried beneath the surface.

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Trump’s “Sheriffs” Can’t Keep the Peace with China

Trump’s “Sheriffs” Can’t Keep the Peace with China

Trump’s foreign policy echoes Nixon’s doctrine of delegating regional security to allies (like Israel in the Middle East) to reduce U.S. burdens. While this approach shows promise in the Middle East and Europe, it faces hurdles: loss of control over proxies, continued U.S. involvement needs, and outright failure in Asia—where China’s military dominance makes allied self-reliance impossible.

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Iran and the Logic of Limited Wars

Iran and the Logic of Limited Wars

Israel’s limited war on Iran needs to be judged against the alternatives. By that measure, the operation was a success. Limited wars can buy time, shift the geopolitical dynamic and, in doing so, pave the way to something more enduring.

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American Gun Violence Goes Global

American Gun Violence Goes Global

The U.S. is exporting its gun violence epidemic globally, inspiring deadly attacks abroad and damaging its international reputation. This crisis undermines U.S. soft power and fuels geopolitical adversaries while allies grow wary.

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Opinion - To meet Trump’s goals, the arsenal of democracy must deliver on time

To Meet Trump’s Goals, the Arsenal of Democracy Must Deliver on Time

The U.S. defense industrial system’s chronic delays and cost overruns undermine trust with allies, embolden adversaries like China, and weaken burden-sharing efforts. While recent reforms target bureaucratic inefficiencies, the defense industry must also improve accountability in meeting delivery timelines and quality standards. Solutions include stricter contract penalties, fostering competition, and expanding options for allies beyond traditional Pentagon programs.

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