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.

READ THE EXPLAINER

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?

VIEW EXPERT INSIGHTS

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.

VIEW SERIES

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.

READ THE EXPLAINER

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.

FIND EXPERTS

Press ReleaseYemen, Air power, Diplomacy, Houthis, Military analysis

Strikes in Yemen are unwarranted

By Benjamin Friedman

March 31, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 31, 2025 Contact: press@defensepriorities.org WASHINGTON, DC—Today, the U.S. launched additional strikes targeting the Houthis in Yemen. […]

op-edIsrael‑Hamas, Israel, Middle East

Time for Trump’s Gaza Takeover Proposal To Die Once and for All

By William Walldorf

March 31, 2025

op-edYemen, Houthis, Middle East

Trump needs to take a step back in the Red Sea

By William Walldorf

March 30, 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.