The hub of realism and restraint

Safeguarding U.S. interests in a Ukraine war settlement

The U.S. should pursue a peace deal in Ukraine that serves America’s best interests.

A framework to achieve a durable peace based on “armed neutrality,” which would leave Ukraine without external guarantees but help it build a credible, self-sufficient deterrent—with Europe leading the way.

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Realistic recommendations for Trump II

New symposium featuring expert insights about the most important, realistic policies for Trump II

What is the most important, realistic policy the incoming administration should adopt to advance U.S. national interests?

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Grand strategy

Special series: Grand Strategy Explained

A special, ongoing explainer series to explore the various facets of grand strategy

Read more about fundamental concepts related to grand strategy—a state’s theory about securing itself—with new papers set to be released.

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Ukraine‑Russia

A defensive approach to Ukraine military aid

Framework to determine what weapons the U.S. should—and should not—consider providing

How to operationalize a defensive strategy, which will be more sustainable for the Ukrainians and more responsible and feasible for the United States, while also reducing the risk of Russian escalation.

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Expert research and analysis

Connect with subject matter experts and military analysts

DEFP experts provide realistic, credible analysis of breaking news, unfolding events, and complex policy issues. Our analysts help simplify complex issues and provide accessible, concrete policy recommendations.

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op-edYemen, Houthis, Middle East

The U.S. War Against the Houthis Is the Real ‘Signalgate’ Scandal

By Benjamin Friedman

April 2, 2025

A week ago, U.S. President Donald Trump’s national security team inadvertently included the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic in a Signal group […]

op-edSyria, Middle East

Navigating Security, Economy, and Diplomacy in Post-Assad Syria

By Alexander Langlois

April 1, 2025

op-edYemen, Houthis, Middle East

Signalgate is distracting us from more serious issues in Yemen

By Daniel DePetris

April 1, 2025

The hub of realism and restraint

Our mission is to inform citizens, thought leaders, and policymakers of the importance of a strong, dynamic military—used more judiciously to protect America’s narrowly defined national interests—and promote a realistic grand strategy prioritizing restraint, diplomacy, and free trade to ensure U.S. security.