Our troops continue to provide the capabilities needed to prevail in conflict and sustain strong U.S. global influence. Instead, we must use all tools of American power to provide for the common defense, including providing effective leadership to our alliances. That is why we must use all the tools of American power to provide for the common defense. [Read the original Mattis resignation document]My views on treating allies with respect and also being clear-eyed about malign actors and strategic competitors are strongly held and informed by over four decades of immersion in these issues. I very much appreciate this opportunity to serve the nation and our men and women in uniform.

Source: Washington Post December 21, 2018 00:00 UTC