National Security Memorandum Approved Ahead of Trump’s Return

National Security Memorandum Approved Ahead of Trump’s Return

In an effort to address the growing cooperation among China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, President Joe Biden has approved a new national security memorandum. This document serves as a roadmap for the incoming Trump administration, providing guidance on how to counter these adversaries.

Memorandum’s Key Recommendations

The classified memorandum includes four broad recommendations aimed at enhancing the U.S. government’s capabilities in dealing with these four nations. These recommendations include: * Improving interagency cooperation within the U.S. government * Expediting information sharing with allies regarding the adversaries * Calibrating the use of sanctions and other economic tools for maximum impact * Bolstering preparedness for managing simultaneous crises involving these adversaries

Growing Cooperation Among Adversaries

The U.S. has long been concerned about the collaboration between these countries, which has accelerated since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. * Russia has turned to Iran for drones and missiles, and to North Korea for military support and fuel. * China has provided Russia with dual-use components and joint patrols in the Arctic. * In exchange, Russia has supported Iran’s missile defense and space capabilities, and recognized North Korea as a nuclear-weapon state.

Coordination During Transition

Despite their contrasting worldviews, officials from both the Biden and Trump administrations have sought to cooperate on national security issues during the transition. The Biden administration emphasizes that the memo is not intended to restrict the Trump administration’s policy options. Instead, it aims to enhance the administration’s ability to effectively address these challenging foreign policy issues. **Bolstering U.S. Capacity** The memorandum seeks to build the capacity of the Trump administration in managing these complex foreign policy challenges. By providing guidance and improving interagency cooperation, the U.S. government can better prepare for potential threats and effectively counter the growing cooperation among China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.