we are still the world's greatest fighting force.

passing TPP is as important to me as another aircraft carrier. It would deepen our alliances and partnerships abroad and underscore our lasting commitment to the Asia-Pacific. And it would help us promote a global order that reflects both…

Russian military objectives in Syria conflict with U.S. national security interests where their actions do not match their stated intent to combat ISIL or emphasize solely the defense of Bashar al-Assad.

I, too, favor, like you, closing Gitmo, if that is at all possible.

I was disappointed that it failed.

the sooner that occurs, the more likely it is that their--the structures of Syrian society aren't completely destroyed by the time that transition occurs.

The United States will continue to lead the Alliance as NATO adapts to evolving challenges on its eastern and southern flanks.

What we need is what I hope is going on now, which is a true budget agreement.

That's why hastening that political transition--Assad out and the political forces, to include the moderate Syrian forces now opposing Assad, have the opportunity to rebuild the country.

We have an obligation to do that, and we've made that clear, right from the beginning of the train-and-equip program.

I believe that General Dunford received, just last week--from Prime Minister Abadi, in no uncertain terms, the statement that he will not work with the Russians.

Ultimately the future of the Alliance is assured by its shared political values of human rights, democratic governance, and respect for the rule of law.