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Vietnam Archives

The Fog of More

On the anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, a look at the lessons we should have learned about changing the national-security discussion.

The Long Road of Negotiations

Troublesome allies and domestic naysayers threaten to derail fledgling talks with Iran.

The Better War That Never Was

The "better-war" thesis blames generals for failed wars and misses the crucial role of faulty strategies. William Westmoreland's Vietnam ordeal offers a case in point. He deserves better than this latest assault by Lewis Sorley.

Shooting First and Asking Questions Later

Americans must ask the tough questions now, not after a military adventure in Iran goes sour. 

The Taliban Get an Address

No one is going to win in Afghanistan. In the name of stability, bargains must be struck—many of which will involve the Taliban.

The Visible and Invisible Effects of War

Anything close to a full balance sheet on the most recent wars will be a long time in coming.

America's Asia Pivot Threatens Regional Stability

How Washington's pivot toward Asia could end a decade of stability and usher in a darker era in relations with Beijing.

Debasing Nazism

Ahmadinejad is not Hitler. Iran is not Nazi Germany. Neocons and Israeli right-wingers must stop crying wolf.

Risk and Recklessness in Public Affairs

What do the masters of foreign policy and the masters of Wall Street have in common? The ability—and propensity—to risk your money (and life) for their whims.

Wars Aren't Free

War in Afghanistan: $440 billion. War in Iraq: $800 billion. Getting out before we go broke: Priceless.

The Ideological Lottery

The other Vietnam Syndrome: How the Vietcong affects your vote.

The Good Autocrat

A stark contrast exists between the tyrannical rulers of the Middle East and the benign despots of East Asia. The precepts of Enlightenment thought dictate freedom for all, but Confucian leaders offer a heretical alternative to Western ideals.

Secret Papers and Stupid Wars

The Pentagon Papers are now fully subject to public scrutiny. The same cannot be said for the intentions of the Daniel Ellsbergs and Bradley Mannings of the world.

The Dragon Lady

Better the dragon you know than the devil you don't.

Libya and the Tragedy of Incremental Decision-Making

Confusion, disagreement and emotion are clouding U.S. judgment in Libya.

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May 25, 2012