US Military
332 Articles

Thoughts for Judge Advocates in Challenging Times
Former JAGs provide principles to guide U.S. military lawyers as the U.S. armed forces faces unprecedented legal and ethical pressures.

Collection: Just Security’s Coverage of Trump Administration Executive Actions
Coverage of key developments, including in concise “What Just Happened” expert explainers, legal and policy analysis, and more. Check back frequently for updates.

Legal Foundations of Honorable Military Service
As former judge advocates, it was our responsibility while on active duty to advise on the legal demands of and limits on senior officers’ authority and responsibility.

The Trump Administration Is Sabotaging Its Own Arctic Strategy
The Trump administration’s own Defense Department policies are undermining the operational means necessary to execute its Arctic strategy.

In the U.S. Strike on an Iranian School, What a Serious Military Investigation Should Look Like
A U.S. military operation resulting in such a civilian death toll as the Minab school strike in Iran demands a credible, thorough Pentagon investigation.

Cuba Libre: One Man’s Morality or Our Law?
We former JAGs must find new ways to examine, protest, and talk to our fellow Americans about this administration’s flagrant and accelerating misuse of the armed forces.

Trump Is Right About Greenland — Wrong About How to Secure It
The challenge is not recognition of Greenland’s importance; it is ensuring that security enhancements are strategic, sustainable, and allied-driven.

Legal and Policy Options for a U.S-South Korea Nuclear Submarine Program
Trump’s announcement 'approving' a nuclear-powered submarine plan with South Korea contradicts U.S. law requiring specific terms, agreements, and congressional review.

The Crisis in Uniform: The Danger of Presidential Immunity for the U.S. Military
Military personnel are increasingly alert to the prospect that they may be asked to prioritize loyalty to an individual over their legal rights and responsibilities.

A Security Guarantee for Ukraine? Look to the Taiwan Relations Act
The United States and its allies can use the Taiwan model to make post-war Ukraine more secure without writing checks they cannot cash.

Trump, Zelenskyy, European Leaders in White House Meeting: Progress Toward a Deal?
Getting to any deal between Ukraine & Russia will require the United States & Europe to stand by Ukrainians & stare down Russia's demands.

In Preparing for Large-Scale Conflicts, States Neglect Lessons on Civilian Protection at Their Peril
A new assessment shows that, among the U.S., the U.K., and the Netherlands, none are prepared for the challenges of protecting civilians.