Tag: us foreign policy
19 articles
US Weighs Loyalty Tests in European Force Posture Review
Loyalty tests can backfire, warn experts Mara Karlin and Julianne Smith, as the US considers a new review of its European force posture that may judge countries on their ideological alignment with America. The proposed pass/fail criteria have sparked debate, with critics arguing that such tests erode, rather than build, loyalty.
US Questionnaire Tests NATO Allies' Support
The US is putting NATO allies to the test with a questionnaire that probes their support for American policies, sparking concerns that it's an unnecessary stress test. Estonia's Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Marko Mihkelson is already speaking out against it, calling it an unwelcome way to handle the situation.
US Scales Back South Korea Military Drills Amid Iran Spat
President Donald Trump just shook things up with a major military decision, announcing plans to scale back US participation in joint drills with South Korea - a move he justified by citing the country's long-standing protection by the US and a recent disagreement over an Iran operation. The reduced drills come courtesy of Trump's desire to cut costs and leverage his personal rapport with North Korea's Kim Jong Un.
US Pivots to Southeast Asia with Pragmatic Security Pitch
The US is stepping up its game in Southeast Asia, offering a no-frills security partnership that's all about mutual benefit, not ideological alignment. Under Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby is pitching a pragmatic approach, promising support in areas like maritime security and intelligence in exchange for cooperation on shared interests.
US Allies Steward Global Order Amid Hegemonic Uncertainty
As global uncertainty grows, Japan and Australia are taking bold steps to shore up the international order, with a landmark agreement between the two nations marking a new era of cooperation. By strengthening ties with each other and with the US, key allies are proactively working to preserve a stable world order.
US Dismissal of Middle Power Strategy Backfires
The US's scathing dismissal of the middle power strategy has backfired, with critics labeling it a misguided distraction that's wasting valuable time, money, and resources for its partners. By downplaying the importance of collaborative defense, the US may be inadvertently undermining its own leadership.
Senator Lindsey Graham's Legacy Shapes US Foreign Policy
Senator Lindsey Graham left a lasting mark on US foreign policy, dedicating his life to championing American leadership and freedom worldwide, with a legacy that spanned over 30 years of military service and unwavering advocacy for nations like Ukraine, China, and Iran. His final journey to Ukraine, his 10th trip since Russia's 2022 invasion, was a testament to his tireless commitment to shaping global policies.
Indo-Pacific Powers Seek China's Deterrence Without US
As Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, and Indonesia navigate the complex Indo-Pacific landscape, they're facing a daunting question: can they keep China in check without the US on their side? The region's recent moves suggest a tentative no, highlighting growing unease as the US appears to be losing interest.
US-Iran Ceasefire Teeters on Brink of Collapse
President Donald Trump warned of further strikes against Iran, saying US forces had hit them hard and would likely do so again, while expressing doubt that the fragile ceasefire was still intact. The US may also consider reinstating a naval blockade and taking control of Kharg Island.
Watling Exposes Shifts in Global Power Rules
The global rules of power have changed, and recent strategic failures reveal a harsh truth: it's not technology that's the problem, but flawed decision-making. From intelligence missteps to misguided priorities, the consequences can be catastrophic, as seen in the US's unprepared response to Iran's retaliation.
US Engine Deal Propels India's Fighter Jet Ambitions
India's quest for self-reliant fighter modernization has hit a major roadblock: the elusive jet engine, and now a deal with US manufacturer General Electric for 15 F414 engines to power its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft prototypes has seen costs triple. This development cements America's grip on India's indigenous fighter ecosystem for decades to come.
Trump Administration Defies Congress on Foreign Aid Spending
The Trump administration's move to restrict foreign aid spending has sparked concerns about a power grab, with one law professor calling it a huge transfer of authority from Congress to the president. The Office of Management and Budget, led by Russell Vought, has labeled over $500 million in global health funds as "unallocated," limiting their use.
US-Iran Nuclear Deal Hinges on Inspectors' Ability to Verify Compliance
The success of a new US-Iran nuclear deal hangs precariously in the balance as inspectors face a daunting task: verifying Iran's compliance with the agreement amidst concerns that critical equipment may be hidden from view. With Iran's history of restricting access to data and facilities, experts warn that inspectors may be starting from a near-total blind spot.
US Pressures Oman, Risks Eroding Key Gulf Mediator Role
President Donald Trump's reported threat to blow up Oman has raised concerns that the US may be jeopardizing a crucial diplomatic channel with Iran, one that has helped prevent escalation for decades. By pressuring Oman to cut ties with Tehran, the US risks eroding its role as a trusted mediator in the Gulf.
US Weighs Military Action to Secure Iran's Enriched Uranium Stockpile
The US and Israel are pressing for urgent action to secure Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile, with President Trump revealing that Tehran had initially agreed to let the US remove the material but then abruptly changed its mind. The development has intensified concerns that Iran may be seeking to develop a nuclear weapon.
US Weapons Deliveries to Nordic Allies Hit by Middle East War
US weapons deliveries to Norway and other Nordic allies are facing potential delays due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with Washington notifying Oslo of possible hold-ups. The delays, however, have not been officially confirmed, with US authorities stressing that no decision has been made yet.
Iran's IRGC Consolidates Power, Shuns US Talks
Behind the scenes, a powerful force is driving Iran's tough stance - and it's not what you might think. A new generation of hardline commanders has taken the reins within the IRGC, making diplomatic efforts like Pakistan's mediation a tough nut to crack.
US Misjudged Iran, Paving Way for Decades of Conflict
In 1977, President Jimmy Carter hailed Iran as an "island of stability" - a label that proved drastically off the mark just months later when mass demonstrations erupted, fueled by deep-seated economic and social divisions. His glowing praise of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi's leadership had ominously overlooked the warning signs of a revolution brewing.
Iran Outmaneuvers US in AI-Powered Meme Warfare
The White House is fighting back in meme warfare, racking up over 2 billion impressions with humorous clips from Call of Duty and SpongeBob SquarePants - but its goals differ greatly from Iran's strategic online tactics. While the US aims to energize its domestic supporters with lighthearted content, Iran is quietly shaping its own narrative.