RAND Policy Update-National Security.

"Understanding Russian Strategic Culture and the low-yield nuclear threat."

Views expressed in this geopolitical news and analysis are those of the reporters and correspondents.  Accessed on 04 September 2025, 2107 UTC.

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Russ Roberts (https://trendsingeopolitics.blogspot.com).

Policy Update National Security Sep 4, 2025 Photo by Evgenia Novozhenina/Reuters    Understanding Russian Strategic Culture and the Low-Yield Nuclear Threat A nuanced understanding of Russia's strategic culture provides context for interpreting its actions and intentions, especially concerning its nuclear posture and signaling. These insights have significant implications for NATO deterrence, escalation management, and international security. Read more   Research Photo by Jantzen Floate/U.S. Air Force Getting the Fundamentals of Cyberspace Force Readiness Right The U.S. Department of Defense faces long-standing challenges in building sustainable cyberspace forces. Foundational initiatives in managing talent, standardizing development pipelines, training, and tracking operational effectiveness would lay the groundwork for a longer-term strategic evolution. Read more Photo by brizmaker/Adobe Stock How Could Veteran Health Care Coverage Be More Efficient? Many U.S. veterans enrolled with the Veterans Health Administration also have other health care coverage. This can lead to confusion on the part of patients, providers, and payers about which source should pay for specific services. Duplicative payments can be a costly concern. Read more Photo by Steve Marcus/Reuters How Might Artificial Intelligence Enhance Cybersecurity? When it comes to cybersecurity, attackers have the advantage. But with the right investments in people, process, and technology, advanced artificial intelligence could be used to tilt the balance of cyber resilience and give defenders an edge. Read more   Commentary and Articles Photo by West Asia News Agency via Reuters Raising Costs to Nuclear Proliferators Israeli and U.S. military strikes in June have raised the cost to Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons. Proliferators must now weigh military risks along with political and financial costs. Read more Photo by Westy72/Getty Images Writing a Defense Strategy That Sticks Defense strategy language is important both in terms of the specific words chosen, and how they are used. As the Pentagon gears up to develop its defense strategy, it should focus on clear, specific priorities and SMART objectives, ensuring guidance is actionable, consistent, and meaningful. Read more Photo by the-lightwriter/Getty Images When Alliances Matter: What the Israel-Iran War Reveals About Alliances Among Authoritarian States While Israel benefited from Western support in the Israel-Iran war, Iran's lack of backing from allies like Russia and China exposed the limits of authoritarian partnerships. This situation highlights the importance of strong alliances and serves as a reminder to EU and NATO allies that unity among nations is crucial for security. Read more   Multimedia Cover art by Haley Okuley/RAND How AGI Could Reshape National Security RAND experts explore the uncertain future of AGI and identify five major security challenges it could bring—from new “wonder weapons” to sweeping shifts in the balance of global power. Read more

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