Bulwark Takes: We Need USAID and NATO! How Trump Admin Puts Us All At Risk
Release Date: February 14, 2025
In this compelling episode of Bulwark Takes, host Ben Parker engages in an in-depth conversation with retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling to explore the critical roles of USAID and NATO in global security. Released on February 14, 2025, this episode delves into the ramifications of the Trump administration’s policies on these essential institutions, highlighting the broader implications for international stability and U.S. national security.
1. The Critical Role of USAID in Conflict Zones
Opening the Discussion: USAID Under Threat
The episode kicks off with Ben Parker addressing the recent attacks on the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) by figures like Elon Musk and Doge, who have initiated efforts to dismantle the agency. Ben remarks:
“[00:11] Ben Parker: …USAID was one of the first targets of Elon Musk and Doge. And they basically tried to take this multi billion dollar, 10,000 person agency that does humanitarian aid and economic development all over the world…”
General Hertling’s Insight on USAID’s Impact
Retired General Mark Hertling provides a firsthand account of USAID’s instrumental role in Iraq's stabilization efforts. He explains how USAID’s initiatives were pivotal in countering insurgencies by improving local infrastructure and livelihoods:
“[01:18] Mark Hertling: …USAID was able to do that with literally hundreds of projects that benefited the people of northern Iraq.”
Hertling emphasizes the collaborative efforts between the military and USAID in rebuilding war-torn regions, fostering trust and stability among local populations.
2. USAID’s Multifaceted Contributions
Building Trust and Infrastructure
Hertling elaborates on specific USAID projects that complemented military operations, such as distributing medicine, providing food, and constructing wells:
“[05:48] Mark Hertling: …the military can clear and get rid of the bad guys. It can hold the areas or secure the areas that the bad guys have left. But then you have to start building a strong government, a strong municipality infrastructure that supports the people.”
These efforts were crucial in the “clear, hold, and build” strategy, which aimed to not only eliminate insurgent threats but also to establish sustainable governance and economic stability.
Generating Intelligence Through Humanitarian Efforts
The collaboration also extended to intelligence gathering, as USAID’s presence facilitated deeper engagement with local communities, providing valuable insights into the insurgency:
“[08:55] Mark Hertling: …USAID was doing those civil affairs operations that were connected uniquely to the State Department, USAID and the various provincial government agencies…”
This symbiotic relationship enhanced the effectiveness of military operations by leveraging the trust and information gathered through humanitarian work.
3. The Threat of Reducing USAID’s Influence
Impact of Funding Cuts and Legal Challenges
Ben Parker and General Hertling discuss the implications of the Trump administration’s attempts to defund USAID, which has far-reaching consequences beyond immediate humanitarian efforts:
“[12:12] Mark Hertling: …we have PEPFAR, which was stopping AIDS in Africa. …if we stop PEPFAR and stop all the things that are associated with it, how long will it take for an AIDS epidemic to overflow an area of low education and low income? It won't be long.”
The potential dismantling of USAID threatens critical programs like PEPFAR, which has been instrumental in combating HIV/AIDS in Africa, saving an estimated 26 million lives:
“[14:28] Mark Hertling: …USAID, the State Department, is another arm of national power called diplomacy. It's soft power… preventing diseases, contributing to building democracies…”
National Security Implications
Hertling warns that reducing USAID’s capabilities could weaken global health initiatives and democratic institutions, ultimately undermining U.S. security:
“[15:44] General Hertling: …these are people that are vying for the attention of those in perhaps the lower income parts of the world… contributing to the help of building democracies, making partners…”
4. Shifts in European Security and NATO
Pete Hegseth’s Controversial Statements in Brussels
The conversation shifts to European security, focusing on comments made by the new Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, during his visit to Brussels:
“[16:11] Ben Parker: …he said that any notion of Ukraine ever joining NATO is off the table.”
Hegseth’s remarks have sparked concern among allies, as they appear to signal a retreat from longstanding commitments to NATO and support for Ukraine.
General Hertling’s Analysis of NATO’s Future
Hertling critiques Hegseth’s stance, highlighting its potential to destabilize NATO and alienate key European allies:
“[19:09] Mark Hertling: …we are on the wrong side of this.”
He underscores the importance of NATO in maintaining European security and expresses worry over the administration’s approach:
“[21:53] Ben Parker: …he says this is all your responsibility. At the same time, he says, and later walked back, that Ukraine will never be in NATO.”
Frozen Conflicts and Russian Expansionism
Hertling provides a detailed overview of the precarious security situation in Europe, exacerbated by Russian aggression:
“[22:58] Mark Hertling: …there are already five frozen conflicts generated by the Russians in Europe… Russia is increasingly broadening their attempt to violate all of the new world order since World War II…”
He emphasizes that the Trump administration’s policies could embolden Russian actions, further destabilizing the region.
5. Future Implications for Ukraine and NATO Allies
Potential Withdrawal of US Support
The episode examines the dire consequences of the United States scaling back its support for Ukraine and NATO allies:
“[25:02] Mark Hertling: …if we weren't providing any assistance, most of the European nations who get a lot of their defense capability from us… are going to go elsewhere.”
This withdrawal could lead to economic downturns, weakened defense capabilities, and increased vulnerability to Russian aggression.
Security Risks for NATO Members
Hertling expresses profound concern for the security of NATO allies, particularly those in Eastern Europe:
“[27:08] Ben Parker: …the world's going to hell in a handbasket. The good news is that gives us a lot more opportunities to talk.”
He warns that European nations, feeling abandoned by the U.S., may lose trust in American commitments, jeopardizing decades of allied cooperation.
Conclusion: A Call to Uphold USAID and NATO
In this episode, Ben Parker and General Mark Hertling underscore the indispensable roles of USAID and NATO in promoting global stability and safeguarding U.S. interests. Hertling’s insights reveal the multifaceted benefits of humanitarian aid in conflict zones and the critical importance of sustained international alliances. As the Trump administration moves to reduce support for these institutions, the conversation highlights the potential risks to global security and the urgent need for a reevaluation of America’s foreign policy priorities.
Notable Quotes:
- “[05:48] Mark Hertling: …the military can clear and get rid of the bad guys. It can hold the areas or secure the areas that the bad guys have left. But then you have to start building a strong government, a strong municipality infrastructure that supports the people.”
- “[15:44] Mark Hertling: …USAID, the State Department, is another arm of national power called diplomacy. It's soft power…”
- “[21:53] Ben Parker: …he says this is all your responsibility. At the same time, he says, and later walked back, that Ukraine will never be in NATO.”
This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the interconnectedness of humanitarian efforts and military strategy, advocating for the preservation and support of USAID and NATO to ensure continued global stability and American security.