Calibrated Threats: Europe

In this piece, I argue that those European states most directly threatened by Russia must enhance their military capabilities.

Recognizing the Threat of Extremism in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Iran

“In effect, the real “Axis of Evil” was none other than Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Iran. And, it’s not even really an axis. One must also include Turkey, which has done everything in its power to become a rival to the United States and a friend to both Sunni extremists as well as Iran.”

Jimmy Carter: The Indecisive Hawk

“Thus, Jimmy Carter was an indecisive hawk whose legacy will plague this country for decades to come. Thankfully, his was but one term in office. What fail few to grasp is just how dangerous hawkishness can be–especially when it is embraced by an unserious president, like Carter. Although, indecision is a real killer of presidencies.”

Caution Killed George H.W. Bush’s Presidency

“But, because George H.W. Bush was more concerned with playing petty politics based on short-term assumptions, rather than acting boldly and taking the licks for his decisions. Even his actions in Desert Storm were indecisive, which created many more problems for the United States in the long-run than there otherwise would have been. This is why George H.W. Bush’s presidency was an unmitigated failure (to say nothing of his domestic failures).”

Of Terror and Torture

“Fear drove American policymakers to abandon practices they deemed as too cumbersome for protecting Americans from terrorists. Their assumption was both right and wrong. I do believe that the CIA’s torture program helped to break otherwise implacable terrorists in time to save some American lives (and give other viable intelligence on terror operations and organization).”