President Trump Releases National Security Strategy
On December 18, President Donald Trump released his National Security Strategy (NSS). The strategy sets a positive strategic direction for the United States that will restore America’s advantages in the world and build upon our country’s great strengths. The NSS is a reflection of President Trump’s belief that putting America first is the duty of our government and the foundation for effective U.S. leadership in the world.
The NSS identifies four vital national interests, or “four pillars”: protect the homeland, the American people, and American way of life; promote American prosperity; preserve peace through strength; and advance American influence. In his remarks, President Trump outlined the new strategy as one “based on a principled realism, guided by our vital national interests, and rooted in our timeless values. This strategy recognizes that, whether we like it or not, we are engaged in a new era of competition.”
“To succeed, we must integrate every dimension of our national strength, and we must compete with every instrument of our national power.”
- President Donald Trump
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson released a statement on December 18 in support of the new NSS. In his statement, Secretary Tillerson said, “The United States faces a 21st century global environment that presents unconventional threats from non-state actors, as well as challenges to our economic and national security from traditional state actors.”
“President Trump’s new National Security Strategy brings to bear all elements of American power to protect our people, generate new economic opportunities, and advance our interests and democratic principles. The State Department will work closely with other federal agencies and our allies and partners around the world to implement this strategy.”
- Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Mark Green also released a statement in support of the President’s announcement.
“Today, President Trump outlined his bold vision for American leadership around the globe. As the world’s leading development and humanitarian assistance agency, USAID is in the forefront of helping our nation respond to, counter, and prevent complex threats and crises around the globe, while creating a more economically prosperous world. USAID is proud to play a critical role in protecting U.S. national security and furthering American interests.”
- USAID Administrator Mark Green
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley also commented on the President’s announcement in a statement.
“President Trump’s National Security Strategy is a comprehensive, strong, and principled roadmap to keep America safe and protect our interests throughout the world,” Ambassador Haley said. “Above all else, this strategy puts the American people at the center of every decision and action we take on behalf of the national security of the United States.”
Editor’s Note: This entry originally appeared in DipNote, the Department of State’s official blog.
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