WASHINGTON -- The newly assembled leadership team of the U.S. Defense Department consists of figures who have advocated for realism and restraint in their writings, signaling a common theme of the second Trump administration.
'America First realists' call for Japan, India and South Korea to counter China

Pete Hegseth speaks after being sworn in as U.S. defense secretary by Vice President JD Vance, right, in Washington on Jan. 25. © AP
WASHINGTON -- The newly assembled leadership team of the U.S. Defense Department consists of figures who have advocated for realism and restraint in their writings, signaling a common theme of the second Trump administration.