Raphael S. Cohen is a senior political scientist and the director of the Strategy and Doctrine Program, Project AIR FORCE at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation.
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Russia's military mobilization and annexation of portions of Eastern Ukraine narrows the possible options for Ukraine and its partners.
The U.S. military would probably fare better in a conventional conflict like Russia's war in Ukraine, but not all the lessons it learned in the war on terror would serve it well.
Europe is anticipating a world in which Russia is weaker but no less dangerous.
Does the United States still have the grit necessary to fight and win long wars?
When U.S. partners "do their fair share," they're also more likely to pursue independent foreign policies.
The international system is more resilient than it appears.
Editor’s Note: The U.S. victory in the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union is often laid at the feet of Ronald Reagan. As Russia again emerges as an adversary, the question “what would Reagan do?” is increasingly being asked. Raphael S. Cohen and James Dobbins of the RAND Corporation argue that circumstances today differ considerably from the Reagan-era standoff during the Cold War. However, Reagan’s strong rhetorical stance, use of economic pressure and other means still could be applied to better oppose Moscow.
Daniel Byman