From the days of President Reagan’s Cold War strategies to Donald Trump’s focus on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, one fact stands clear: the presence of the U.S. generally leads to a safer world and increased strength for America.
Having worked on counter-terrorism initiatives and national intelligence strategies in Congress, I can say with certainty that withdrawing from global engagement isn’t a show of strength. Instead, we must focus on leadership, building partnerships, and making investments that safeguard our national interests.
The current proposal in Congress to withdraw resources should alarm anyone who values national security, global stability, and economic health in their communities. This is a risk that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
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The suggested changes would eliminate billions allocated for national security, global health, economic development, and humanitarian efforts. These resources are essential for the U.S. to stay competitive, counter authoritarian regimes, prevent regional crises, and support our allies.
It’s time to have an honest discussion about the accountability of international assistance. The Trump administration made the right call in scrapping programs that don’t serve our interests. Some argue that it’s about cutting unused funds, but that’s misleading. Most of the cuts would impact funds recently approved in March for urgent national security needs, not expired initiatives. In simple terms, you can’t terminate a program that just got funding.
Providing effective international support is, in essence, a strategic investment that leads to long-term benefits for the U.S. By investing in emerging economies, we provide necessary tools to stabilize chaotic regions, alleviate poverty, tackle disease, and combat hunger. It’s not merely about doing the right thing; it’s also a smart move.
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This strategy can prevent crises that might otherwise require U.S. military action. By addressing extremism early, we can slow its spread and counter the influence of adversarial nations like China, Iran, and Russia.
Despite the growing diplomatic reach of China, the U.S. is contemplating a significant reduction that could weaken its standing in strategic areas. The proposed withdrawal would shrink the U.S. national security presence worldwide by 85%, and it’s just one among several actions that could diminish American influence during a pivotal time.
This is where principles intersect with practicality. As a nation, we’ve always stood by those in need—not just because it’s the right thing to do, but also because it fosters a safer, more stable, and prosperous world. This is beneficial for the U.S. as well.
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Trump emphasizes that American strength should align with American priorities. This is the time for us to focus and leverage international support not just as a tool for others, but as a means to reinforce our safety, economy, and overall security.
We must optimize how we utilize U.S. international aid to yield tangible results for Americans and promote the future we aim to create. By leading with strength, we can deter threats before they reach our shores, fostering a safer future.
If America retreats, others will step in with conflicting values and goals. Our leadership is crucial.
