Mr. Trump’s pre-inauguration foreign policy moves — especially the apparent rejection of the longstanding “One China” policy and the dubious courtship of Russia as a counterterrorism partner — reflected the national security adviser’s incautious approach to strategic affairs. Which is why we may be looking at a more radical, and more inept, foreign policy than anyone expected from Mr. Trump, even two weeks ago. It is highly improbable that either Mr. Bannon or Mr. Flynn will foster that kind of probing outreach. Advertisement Continue reading the main storyAnd while Mr. Bannon and perhaps Mr. Flynn have the president’s ear, Mr. Mattis has offsetting assets. In meetings, the national security adviser has to marshal some degree of consensus on security council action items.

Source: New York Times February 03, 2017 20:23 UTC