Strategy and Statecraft

The CSIS Strategy and Statecraft Program conducts research and analysis to help answer the most significant strategic questions facing our country and our world. The program examines the fundamental shifts in the international landscape, including in the global balance of power. Examples include the implications of U.S. competition and cooperation with China, emerging technology and innovation, the industrial base, conflict in the Middle East, alliances, the war in Ukraine, and the intersection of economic, political, and military strategy and statecraft.

Several world-changing events have impacted society in recent years, including the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, conflict between Israel and Iran, and a growing Sino-American rivalry. These and other events have far-reaching consequences across the public and private sectors around the globe.

The CSIS Strategy and Statecraft Program also hosts a Fellowship. Each year, a group of extraordinary leaders in business, government, and academia come together for seven dinners and a closing summit. These conversations go far beyond surface-level analysis, delving into hard issues and delivering new strategic insights. More information can be found here.

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Featured Analysis

Photo: Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

Photo: Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

The National Security Strategy: The Good, the Not So Great, and the Alarm Bells

This NSS marks an ideological and substantive shift in U.S. foreign policy, as the administration defines a new “America First” foreign policy doctrine that is deeply pragmatic, and perhaps short-sighted. This is a truly pivotal moment in the way the world works. 

Commentary by Emily Harding — December 5, 2025

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AI and Grand Strategy: The Case for Restraint

Artificial intelligence may not reward a military arms race, but instead favor strategic restraint, economic capacity, and the ability to mobilize capital, infrastructure, and partnerships that shape long-term power and influence.

Report by Erica D. Lonergan and Benjamin Jensen — January 28, 2026

Russia’s Grinding War in Ukraine

Despite claims of success in Ukraine, new CSIS data shows that Russia is paying an extraordinary price for minimal gains, with over 1.2 million casualties. Russia is also in decline as a major economic power with slow growth, weak productivity, and declining manufacturing.

Brief by Seth G. Jones and Riley McCabe — January 27, 2026

Status of the Force with VADM Brendan McLane

The CSIS Defense and Security Department and the U.S. Naval Institute hosted a Maritime Security Dialogue event featuring Vice Admiral Brendan McLane, Naval Surface Forces Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet on the future of the Navy’s surface warfare efforts.

Transcript — January 16, 2026

Greenland, Rare Earths, and Arctic Security

Greenland holds globally significant rare earth resources, but harsh conditions and weak infrastructure have stalled mining. U.S. interests are best advanced not through coercion, but coordinated investment with European allies to counter China’s influence.

Report by Meredith Schwartz and Gracelin Baskaran — January 8, 2026

Maduro Captured: What Comes Next for Venezuela?

Maduro’s capture is a significant tactical victory for the United States, the region, and Venezuelans. Whether it leads to long-term strategic gains for the United States and Venezuelans, meaning a return to democracy, will be clear only with time.

Commentary by Ryan C. Berg — January 3, 2026

Why Did the United States Conduct Strikes in Nigeria?

Isolated strikes like the ones carried out by the United States are unlikely to significantly reduce the terrorist threat in the region or reverse Nigeria’s growing insecurity.

Critical Questions by Alexander Palmer and Erin Oppel — December 26, 2025

Putting the Industrial Base on a Wartime Footing

Putting the industrial base on a wartime footing will require strong leadership and consistent funding, with an investment in readiness for day one of any conflict, and the ability to maintain, repair, and replace the capabilities needed to prevail in any future fight. 

Commentary by Jerry McGinn and Cynthia R. Cook — December 5, 2025