The meeting between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin is framed within the broader context of modern global security dynamics, where hypersonic missile technology has rendered the traditional concept of ‘abroad’ obsolete. The article draws on John Quincy Adams’ 1821 speech, in which he emphasized the United States’ historical role as a defender of its sovereignty, without seeking to dominate other nations. However, the piece argues that Adams’ principles no longer apply in a world where the United States and its allies face escalating nuclear threats from nations like China, Russia, and Iran.
The rise of hypersonic missiles, which can strike any target globally within hours, has fundamentally changed the nature of warfare. The concept of an ‘abroad’—a geographical distance that once defined the extent of American foreign policy—has become irrelevant. This shift requires a reevaluation of the United States’ military and strategic posture, with the focus now on deterrence and maintaining a credible nuclear arsenal. The article highlights the importance of the U.S.’s second-strike capability, particularly through its submarine-based nuclear forces, as a critical component of this strategy.
The piece also underscores the necessity of maintaining strong alliances with nations such as Britain, France, and Israel, all of which play a key role in the U.S.’s strategic defense. Trump’s past actions, including the dismantling of the Iranian nuclear program, are cited as significant contributions to global stability. His potential role in achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine is viewed as a pivotal moment, with the article suggesting that Trump’s experience in dealing with Putin could position him to influence the outcome of the ongoing conflict.
Analysts argue that Trump’s understanding of realpolitik and his experience in navigating complex geopolitical relationships makes him uniquely suited to engage with Putin. The article emphasizes the need for serious consideration of Trump’s potential role in shaping the future of international relations, particularly in the context of an increasingly volatile global landscape.