Ep 105. Tom Donilon, National Security Advisor

Tom Donilon, a former National Security Advisor to President Barack Obama, joins Charlie Rose in season 20 episode 105 of his iconic talk show for a discussion centered around contemporary US foreign policy and national security challenges. Mr. Donilon led the National Security Council (NSC) with distinction from 2010 to 2013, arguably one of the most consequential periods in recent American history. Within that time, the US carried out the successful raid on Osama bin Laden's compound in Pakistan, completed military operations in Iraq, implemented a comprehensive new strategy in Afghanistan, negotiated the New START Treaty with Russia, and played a vital role in the transformation of the Middle East. Donilon, who has a long and distinguished career in foreign affairs, provides insightful and candid commentary on various issues facing the current and future US government administrations.

Charlie Rose begins the show with a question about the current state of US-China relations, given Tom Donilon's extensive experience with this relationship. The conversation shifts to a broad discussion of foreign affairs, touching on the importance of diplomacy and negotiations backed up by strong military capabilities. Donilon also highlights the significance of understanding the opponent in American foreign strategy, with a focus on Russia and China. Rose and Donilon emphasize the importance of working with allies in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East to build a coalition that is not only effective in containing and rolling back the growing threats, but also in creating positive and sustainable change in partner nations.

Throughout the episode, Tom Donilon emphasizes the importance of developing strong relationships with foreign counterparts, particularly in such areas as countering violent extremism and cyber security. He suggests that the key to combating the threat of terrorism is to work together with nations and communities around the world, and to give support to both legitimate governments and civil society groups. Donilon also speaks to the importance of communication and a clear chain of command, endorsing multilateralism as a means to counter violent extremism effectively.

Charlie Rose and Tom Donilon also discuss some of the more controversial aspects of US foreign policy, specifically in regard to current political turmoil in the Middle East. Donilon notes that it is essential to tread carefully when intervening in the politics of other countries, highlighting the dangers of imposing US-style democracy on nations unprepared for its realities. The conversation then turns to the war in Syria and the challenge of balancing interventionist and non-interventionist approaches. Donilon highlights the difficulties that arise in these situations and mentions that there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

The episode also tackles the issue of cybersecurity, which is a growing concern in American foreign policy. Donilon stresses the need for both cooperation and competition between states to ensure that cybersecurity issues do not become a larger problem. The former national security advisor notes that the US must make cybersecurity a central priority, given the importance of digital infrastructure in both domestic security and the global economy.

Tom Donilon concludes the episode with a call to action, emphasizing the need for American leadership in both foreign and domestic policy. He notes that the most significant test of US leadership is the way in which it deals with issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare at home. Donilon believes that without addressing these issues, the US cannot be an effective leader abroad. He concludes that the US needs to do more to create a more robust global order, which includes promoting economic growth, democracy, and security.

In this episode of Charlie Rose, Tom Donilon provides viewers with an exceptional analysis of America's role in foreign affairs. His experience, clarity of thought, and ability to articulate complex issues are evident throughout the show. The episode is a must-watch for those interested in American foreign policy, international relations, and the changing nature of warfare.