How The US Can Lead Again

Sina’s introduction to the Security Forum is right about one thing: the post–Cold War holiday is over. The assumption that globalization alone would secure peace has proven naïve. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the weaponization of supply chains, and the militarization of emerging technologies all make clear that national security is once again paramount.

Strength matters. Deterrence matters. Leadership in AI, cyber defense, advanced manufacturing, and space systems is not optional if the United States intends to protect itself and its allies. We cannot outsource critical capabilities and still expect genuine strategic independence or long-term resilience.

But security is a means, not an end. The purpose of strength is peace. An arsenal of democracy must ultimately defend a democratic peace grounded in sovereignty, stability, and the rule of law. When conflicts exceed legitimate defense or violate shared norms, the international community should respond with clarity, coordination, and moral seriousness.

If the United States hopes to lead this next era, credibility will be its most important asset. Credibility does not come from budget size alone, but from moral consistency, stable governance, and domestic unity. A divided nation struggles to persuade allies or deter adversaries, making the repair of strained relationships and the renewal of civic trust an urgent strategic priority.

We should also remain humble. Globalization, open markets, immigration, and outsourced supply chains were bipartisan policy choices made over decades. As we recalibrate, we should do so without casting blame on others for decisions we collectively embraced.

Strength, deployed wisely and paired with example, can preserve peace. Strength without example commands neither trust nor imitation—and cannot sustain lasting leadership.

— Kubs Lalchandani