Redefining Power: U.S. National Security Strategy in a New Era, Fireside Talk with fmr White House NSC Director
Overview: Join us for an engaging discussion examining the new Trump administration’s global strategy and its implications for international relations. This talk will explore how President Trump’s “America First” agenda reshaped U.S. foreign policy through bold economic moves, shifts in military alliances, and refreshed international engagements. From trade wars to alliance reevaluations, we’ll delve into key initiatives that redefined America’s role on the world stage. The talk will also address the challenges faced by allies navigating the evolving U.S. stance and pathways for future cooperation. Whether you’re a student of international relations or simply curious about modern geopolitics, this event promises thought-provoking perspectives on a pivotal moment in global affairs.

Speaker Bio: Alexander B. Gray is the Chief Executive Officer of American Global Strategies LLC, an international strategic advisory firm that he co-founded with former U.S. National Security Advisor Robert C. O’Brien. In addition to the day-to-day management of the firm, Mr. Gray’s wide-ranging practice includes the defense, aerospace, maritime, and technology sectors. Mr. Gray most recently served as Deputy Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff of the White House National Security Council (NSC), where he directed the daily operations of the National Security Advisor’s immediate office, as well as the budget, personnel, and security functions of the NSC. Previously, he served in the White House as Special Assistant to the President for the Defense Industrial Base at the National Economic Council (NEC), the principal Executive Office of the President (EOP) official responsible for matters impacting the defense and manufacturing industrial base, and as the first-ever Director for Oceania and Indo-Pacific Security at the NSC.
Date: 3 February 2025, 18:00
Venue: Manor Road Building, Manor Road OX1 3UQ
Venue Details: Seminar Room D
Speaker: Alexander B Gray (White House National Security Council (NSC) Chief of Staff & Director (2018-2021); Chief Executive Officer, American Global Strategies)
Organising department: Department of Politics and International Relations (DPIR)
Organiser: Chris Morris (University of Oxford)
Organiser contact email address: isabel.schulzefroning@politics.ox.ac.uk
Part of: Oxford Emerging Threats & Technology Working Group
Booking required?: Required
Booking url: https://us21.list-manage.com/survey?u=727d55073cf70ac049beb79ba&id=1e38a0143e&attribution=false
Booking email: isabel.schulzefroning@politics.ox.ac.uk
Audience: Oxford University Members and Wider Academic/Policy Community
Editors: Christopher Morris, Isabel Schulze Froning