Author: Kurt L. Davis Jr.
The Fall Of Assad: Five Hot Takes
The dramatic fall of Syrian President Bashar Assad marks a watershed moment in the tumultuous history of the Middle East. Mr. Assad’s regime, sustained for years by the external lifelines of Russia and Iran, finally crumbled under the weight of its contradictions and the enduring pressures of civil war. For the United States, his fall underscores critical lessons about our foreign policy failures and raises urgent questions about the road ahead…
The Nations Likely To Win, Not Lose, From Trump’s Tariffs
Trump’s coming trade war will drive more supply chains out of China, opening opportunities for select others to fill the gaps…
Trump’s Return Signals New Opportunities for Middle East Ties
As Donald Trump heads back to the White House, leaders across the Middle East anticipate the revival of a pragmatic partnership centered on economic growth, security, and regional stability. Trump’s first term resonated with Gulf leaders and beyond, emphasizing results over ideology—a stark contrast to the Biden administration. His tenure’s signature accomplishments, including the Abraham Accords, a robust stance on Iran, and business-driven diplomacy, are seen as a roadmap for renewed progress in the region…
The French Exodus From Africa: Has It Helped Democracy
Was the criticism of France’s presence in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and Niger more about national pride than about fostering true democratic development…
Americas First?’ A Second Trump Term Could Be A Renaissance For Latin America
The prospect of Donald Trump returning to the White House in 2025 has sparked intense discussion about the future of U.S.-Latin American relations. While critics focus on potential tensions, a closer examination reveals how Trump’s “America First” approach could catalyze a long-overdue transformation in hemispheric relations, ultimately benefiting both the U.S. and its southern neighbors…
Israel’s Expanding War and the Echoes of the American ‘Surge’ Strategy
Israel has dramatically escalated its military operations, extending beyond Gaza to include strikes in Lebanon, Yemen and Syria. This expansion marks a significant shift in strategy that borrows heavily from the American playbook while tailoring it to Israel’s unique geopolitical context. As the conflict intensifies, it’s crucial to examine the implications of this approach, not just for the Middle East but for global security and economic stability…
The Unfulfilled Promise Of Biden’s Foreign Policy
President Biden entered office with a wealth of foreign policy experience and the promise to restore American leadership on the global stage. Yet, as his term nears its end, his administration’s handling of international crises raises questions about the effectiveness of his approach…
US President Biden’s Postponed Angola Trip Is A Missed Opportunity
President Joe Biden has postponed his trip to Luanda. With US elections in less than four weeks it is unlikely he will visit Africa as president…
Top Foreign Policy Issues Facing Next U.S. President on Day 1
The 2024 U.S. presidential election is in full swing with candidates talking economic policy but partially skirting round foreign policy challenges. The foreign policy debate has been limited with most commentary focused on whether the policy will be more “arrogant” or “predictable”, neither of which are informative descriptions for a candidate or directionally insightful as a strategy. The next U.S. president will face several key issues on day 1 and, while temperament can be part of the test, there is a question of policy answers and details…
