President Donald Trump’s recent remarks in Ankara, Turkey, have revealed a grand strategy that emphasizes deterrence, strength, and alliances. During a press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Trump discussed various topics, including Iran, Ukraine, NATO, and China.

Deterrence Before Diplomacy

Trump’s comments highlighted the importance of deterrence before diplomacy. He expressed frustration with NATO allies over their lack of support for the United States in the Iran war. Trump believes that diplomacy without credible power rarely succeeds, and that force restores deterrence, which creates leverage for negotiation.

Ending Wars from Strength

Another key principle of Trump’s grand strategy is ending wars from positions of strength rather than managing them indefinitely. He hopes to settle the war in Ukraine soon, but acknowledges that peace is not simple or cost-free. Trump’s approach seeks outcomes rather than endless commitment, and he believes that diplomacy must be backed by enough leverage to produce a durable and just settlement.

Alliances as Multipliers, Not Dependencies

Trump’s grand strategy also emphasizes the importance of alliances as multipliers, not dependencies. He believes that NATO remains indispensable, but that no alliance stays healthy if one nation carries a disproportionate share of the burden. Trump welcomes European allies’ efforts to increase their defense spending and develop new military capabilities.

Geography Still Shapes Strategy

Finally, Trump’s grand strategy recognizes that geography still shapes strategy, even in an age of advanced computing systems, cyber operations, and space capabilities. Turkey’s strategic location makes it a crucial ally, and Trump is willing to revisit U.S.-Turkish defense issues to strengthen their partnership.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.