Strategy and Statecraft

The CSIS Strategy and Statecraft Program conducts research and analysis to help answer the most significant strategic questions facing our country and our world. The program examines the fundamental shifts in the international landscape, including in the global balance of power. Examples include the implications of U.S. competition and cooperation with China, emerging technology and innovation, the industrial base, conflict in the Middle East, alliances, the war in Ukraine, and the intersection of economic, political, and military strategy and statecraft.

Several world-changing events have impacted society in recent years, including the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, conflict between Israel and Iran, and a growing Sino-American rivalry. These and other events have far-reaching consequences across the public and private sectors around the globe.

The CSIS Strategy and Statecraft Program also hosts a Fellowship. Each year, a group of extraordinary leaders in business, government, and academia come together for seven dinners and a closing summit. These conversations go far beyond surface-level analysis, delving into hard issues and delivering new strategic insights. More information can be found here.

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Featured Analysis

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Libkos/Getty Images

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Libkos/Getty Images

Russia’s Grinding War in Ukraine

Despite claims of success in Ukraine, new CSIS data shows that Russia is paying an extraordinary price for minimal gains, with over 1.2 million casualties. Russia is also in decline as a major economic power with slow growth, weak productivity, and declining manufacturing.

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Brief by Seth G. Jones and Riley McCabe — January 27, 2026

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Trump’s New Nuclear Architecture for Modernization and Arms Control

The Trump administration recently announced a new architecture for nuclear policy, which includes an enduring commitment to nuclear modernization and arms control. The United States can expand and diversify its nuclear arsenal and work toward nuclear risk reduction measures.

Brief by Heather Williams and Nicholas Adamopoulos — March 13, 2026

What Can the United States and Israel Accomplish in Iran?

Secretary Hegseth called Operation Epic Fury “straightforward.” But while the United States strikes the Iranian navy, nuclear program, and missiles, Israel and Trump eye regime change. This piece deconstructs that daylight and the true cost of each goal.

Commentary by Emily Harding — March 11, 2026

The Last Line of Defense

Beyond the Air War: What Are the Global Risks of the Iran Conflict?

Host Seth Jones sits down with General David H. Petraeus, retired U.S. Army general and former director of the CIA, to discuss the latest developments in Iran, including ongoing military operations and the escalating challenge of countering drone and missile threats.

Podcast Episode by Seth G. Jones — March 10, 2026

The Last Line of Defence

What Does the New Cyber Strategy Really Mean?

The new U.S. cyber strategy marks a shift to a more proactive cyber policy. It is a commendable declaration of goals but lacks a conversation about matching resources to these goals. This analysis explores the strategy’s strengths, gaps, and the path forward.

Critical Questions by Emily Harding — March 9, 2026

$3.7 Billion: Estimated Cost of Epic Fury’s First 100 Hours

Operation Epic Fury costs nearly $900 million per day, driven by the large expenditure of munitions. Because most of this is not in the budget, the Pentagon will soon need to ask for more money.

Commentary by Mark F. Cancian and Chris H. Park — March 5, 2026

Russia-Ukraine War in 10 Charts

Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, the war in Ukraine has reshaped European security, global markets, and the balance of power. These 10 charts break down the battlefield, economic strain, military aid shifts, reconstruction costs, and what comes next.

Commentary by CSIS Scholars — February 24, 2026

The Last Line of Defense

Why Putin’s "Inevitable" Victory in Ukraine is a Myth

Host Seth Jones speaks with Kate Bachelder Odell of The Wall Street Journal about the state of Russia’s war in Ukraine as it nears its fifth year.

Podcast Episode by Seth G. Jones — February 18, 2026

The Last Line of Defence