Why Do We Need Foreign Arms Sales?

The global arms trade is big business and the United States accounts for more than 40 percent of the world’s weapons exports. Aside from the profit motivation, selling arms abroad can be an effective foreign policy tool, allowing the United States to exert influence over conflict and security worldwide without having to put boots on the ground. But are the risks worth the reward?

Featured Guests:

Christa N. Almonte (U.S. Navy Fellow, Council on Foreign Relations)

William D. Hartung (Director, Arms and Security Program, Center for International Policy)

Rachel Stohl (Vice President of Research Programs, Stimson Center)

For an episode transcript and show notes, visit us at https://www.cfr.org/podcasts/cost-us-arms-trade