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On U.S. National Security Challenges

On U.S. National Security Challenges

Update: 2025-09-19
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Since the start of the second Trump administration, the National Security Council (NSC) has seen its staff reduced from around 350 employees to fewer than 100, with dozens of policy experts abruptly dismissed or placed on administrative leave this May. Former U.S. National Security Advisors Thomas E. Donilon, Stephen J. Hadley, and Susan E. Rice unpack how the recent reorganization could affect U.S. foreign policy decision-making. 


 


Background Reading:



  • This backgrounder from CFR Education outlines the role of the U.S. National Security Council.


 


Host: Michael Froman, President, Council on Foreign Relations


 


Guests: Susan E. Rice, Former National Security Advisor (2013–17); CFR Member


 


Thomas E. Donilon, Former National Security Advisor (2010–13); Member, Board of Directors, Council on Foreign Relations


 


Stephen J. Hadley, Former National Security Advisor (2005–09); CFR Member


 


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To keep tabs on all CFR events, visit cfr.org/event. To watch this event, please visit our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTvZJxAGnW4 

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On U.S. National Security Challenges

On U.S. National Security Challenges

Council on Foreign Relations