This week, President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the Syria-Turkey border region. In so doing Trump rekindled debates about credibility, support for allies, and America's role in the Middle East. Critics warned that abandoning the Kurds, who served as coalition partners in the fight against the self-proclaimed Islamic State, would undermine U.S. influence in the region and chip away at its global reputation. The sudden announcement also drew attention to Trump's chaotic foreign policy process, given that it seemed to catch everyone by surprise.
All this looks like a funhouse mirror version of President George W. Bush's decision to “surge” in Iraq in January 2007. In that case, observers praised the president for making a tough call in support of local allies, and for encouraging a thoughtful policy debate at a time of intense political pressure. Bush doubled down on U.S. force to rescue a fractured country. Trump is betting on withdrawal. Bush's decision was the culmination of months of serious policy debate. Trump justified his actions on Twitter.
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