Built, Not Given: America at 250

Analysis
by Leslie Vinjamuri

My reflections from the Council's America at 250 Global Forum on the sources that fueled American power and influence and what is now at stake.

A photo of the Council's America at 250 Global Forum Sign US Foreign Policy

The United States Chose Not to Renew the USMCA. What Happens Next?

Analysis
by Julián Ventura

The trilateral trade deal with Mexico and Canada remains in place for now, but the decision raises questions about North America’s economic future.

Trucks line up to cross the border into the United States
Gregory Bull / AP
Global Economy

Beyond Defense Spending: What's at Stake for NATO in Ankara

Analysis
by Coauthors

Ahead of the 2026 NATO Summit, Council experts examine deeper fractures over threat perception, alliance trust, and Washington's commitment.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte speaks after a meeting of NATO defense ministers at NATO headquarters in Brussels
Virginia Mayo / AP
Global Politics

The Iran Deal Reveals the Limits of American Power 

Analysis
by Leslie Vinjamuri

The desire to unlock the Strait of Hormuz will continue to focus the mind of the United States and its allies. 

Tankers and cargo vessels are seen in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea, Tuesday, June 16, 2026.
AP Photo
US Foreign Policy

Trumpism and TikTok: The Factors Shaping Young Americans' Foreign Policy Views

Analysis
by Coauthors

Millennial and Generation Z Americans have come of age during a time of technological change, economic upheaval, and strategic overreach.

teens hold their cell phones
Rick Rycroft / AP
Public Opinion

The United States and Iran Reach a Deal but Agree to Little

Analysis
by Ariane Tabatabai

Trump celebrated his 80th birthday with a UFC fight and a preliminary deal with Iran, kicking off a 60-day clock for negotiations.

The Jordan flagged cargo ship "Baghdad" sails in Persian Gulf towards Strait of Hormuz in United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
AP Photo
US Foreign Policy

The G7's Overriding Goal: Getting Through

Analysis
by Leslie Vinjamuri

Despite geopolitical turmoil, France is using the G7 to ensure Europe remains relevant as the United States and China pursue further bilateral diplomacy.

A French police officer walks past G7 logos in Evian-les-Bains
Baz Ratner / AP
Global Politics

In Iran, America's Military Readiness Takes a Costly Hit

Analysis
by Ariane Tabatabai

From Venezuela to the Middle East, the Trump administration has not hesitated to use force. But even the world’s most powerful military has its limits.

Military hardware is paraded in Washington to commemorate the Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026, coinciding with the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations.
Jose Luis Magana / AP
Geopolitics

What China Wants and Why: Taiwan, North Korea, and Bipolarity

Analysis
by Evan Medeiros

Trump called Xi his “friend” during a May summit in Beijing. But that doesn’t mean the two leaders see eye to eye.

In this photo provided by the North Korean government, Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, and his wife Peng Liyuan arrive at the airport in Pyongyang, Monday, June 8, 2026.
Korean Central News Agency / Korea News Service via AP
Global Politics

The Challenges of Charting a New Order

Analysis
by Raymond C. Kuo

At 250, America is attempting to redefine its position in the global system. Can it convince others to follow?

President Donald Trump boards Air Force One, Friday, April 17, 2026, at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix.
Alex Brandon / AP
US Foreign Policy