Derek J. Grossman(@DerekJGrossman):Bridge Colby's "flexible realism" is just mumbo jumbo. Sure, engaging with Cambodia to challenge China makes sense. But otherwise, US allies and partners seek our sustained commitment based on more than transactionalism, circumstances, and arbitrary burden-sharing. Indeed, common principles and values are the glue that binds, and Bridge's approach discards them entirely. I'm also worried about a conscious deprioritization of the Indian Ocean replaced by an all-in strategy at the First Island Chain as well as Trump's penchant for wrecking everything regardless of Bridge's dreams (see US-ROK military drills this week). My latest piece for @ForeignPolicy explains.

2026.08.18 14:33

Bridge Colby's "flexible realism" is just mumbo jumbo. Sure, engaging with Cambodia to challenge China makes sense. But otherwise, US allies and partners seek our sustained commitment based on more than transactionalism, circumstances, and arbitrary burden-sharing. Indeed, common principles and values are the glue that binds, and Bridge's approach discards them entirely. I'm also worried about a conscious deprioritization of the Indian Ocean replaced by an all-in strategy at the First Island Chain as well as Trump's penchant for wrecking everything regardless of Bridge's dreams (see US-ROK military drills this week). My latest piece for @ForeignPolicy explains.