Trump And His Generals

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From a leading national security journalist, this account reveals Donald Trump's tumultuous relationship with the American national security establishment. Trump entered the White House with minimal foreign policy experience, bringing a bold, zero-sum approach to complex issues. His "America First" agenda often undermined long-standing foreign alliances, a departure from the careful diplomacy of previous presidents. Trump's blunt force tactics were evident in his responses to military briefings; for instance, he suggested aggressive actions against Iran and flippantly remarked that South Koreans should relocate due to the proximity of North Korea. This raised alarms among top officials, who soon realized their priority was to safeguard the nation from Trump's impulsive decisions. The narrative explores the clash between Trump and the entrenched national security community, including the CIA, State Department, and Pentagon. The generals he appointed—Jim Mattis, John Kelly, and H. R. McMaster—were products of this culture, but their tenure was short-lived. The book examines the chaotic landscape of U.S. foreign policy under Trump, addressing critical global threats while highlighting the lack of a coherent strategy. It offers a clear yet unsettling perspective on the challenges facing America in a turbulent world.