The Rachman Review A foreign policy debrief with Jake Sullivan
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May 29, 2025 Jake Sullivan, President Biden's National Security Advisor, shares insights on his four-year tenure navigating tumultuous global events. He discusses the rapid Taliban resurgence in Afghanistan, the geopolitical fallout from Russia's Ukraine invasion, and the intricate balance of U.S. support for Israel amid humanitarian concerns. Sullivan also reflects on the interplay between domestic upheaval and foreign policy, stressing the need for renewed American strength in a competitive international landscape. This conversation provides a deep dive into the complexities shaping today's global affairs.
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Renewing American Strength
- Biden administration aimed to renew American strength after pandemic and hollowing industrial base.
- Recognized new era of competition with China requiring strategic positioning and industrial revival.
Ending Forever Wars
- Biden chose to end the 'forever war' in Afghanistan following Trump's withdrawal deal.
- Though execution had flaws and risks, permanently ending the war was a strategic necessity.
Afghan Withdrawal and Putin's Plans
- Afghan withdrawal did not damage US alliances; they remained strong by Biden's departure.
- Putin had begun Ukraine invasion planning months before Afghanistan withdrawal concluded.