Our troops continue to provide the capabilities needed to prevail in conflict and sustain strong U.S. global influence. Like you, I have said from the beginning that the armed forces of the United States should not be the policeman of the world. Instead, we must use all tools of American power to provide for the common defense, including providing effective leadership to our alliances. NATO’s 29 democracies demonstrated that strength in their commitment to fighting alongside us following the 9-11 attack on America. That is why we must use all the tools of American power to provide for the common defense.

Source: New York Times December 20, 2018 23:10 UTC