The article argues that recent executive overreach and politicization have severely undermined established norms of U.S. civil-military relations. To restore professional standards, the incoming Congress must actively exercise its oversight powers, moving beyond mere criticism to demanding transparency in defense policy and personnel decisions. Key reforms include enforcing meritocratic promotion processes, requiring documented justification for senior officer removals, and preventing the partisan use of the military. These actions are crucial for bolstering public trust and ensuring the military remains a nonpartisan instrument of civilian control.
Why Japan and South Korea Won’t Go Nuclear
English Summary
A CSIS report argues that despite increased speculation and geopolitical pressures, Japan and South Korea are unlikely to develop nuclear weapons in the foreseeable future. The analysis highlights deeply ingrained domestic political and bureaucratic constraints, as well as a continued reliance on the U.S. security umbrella, as primary deterrents. While concerns about U.S. commitment and regional instability may fuel debate, the costs and risks associated with nuclear proliferation remain significant obstacles. This suggests policymakers should focus on strengthening alliance commitments and addressing regional security concerns through non-nuclear means.
中文摘要
根據美國戰略與國際研究中心（CSIS）的一份報告指出，儘管近期市場投機與地緣政治壓力有所增加，但在可預見的未來，日本和韓國不太可能發展核武器。該分析強調，國內政治與官僚體系既有深層次限制，以及持續依賴美國的安全保障傘，是主要的威懾力量。雖然對美國承諾及區域不穩定的擔憂可能引發辯論，但與核武器擴散相關的成本與風險仍然是重要的障礙。此結果表明，政策制定者應專注於強化聯盟承諾，並透過非核手段來應對區域安全顧慮。
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