Trump Ask Military Leaders For Assistance
President Donald Trump is once again breaking with Washington tradition — and this time, he’s bringing America’s military leadership directly into some of the world’s most dangerous negotiations.
Rather than relying solely on career diplomats, Trump has tapped top military figures to help manage talks with Iran over its nuclear program and to push for an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Supporters say the move sends a clear message: the United States is negotiating from a position of strength.
Top U.S. Commander Joins Iran Nuclear Discussions
In a highly unusual step, Trump sent Adm. Brad Cooper, the top U.S. military commander in the Middle East, to participate in indirect talks with Iran. The discussions took place Friday in Oman as tensions continue to rise over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
Cooper appeared in full military uniform — a deliberate signal that U.S. military power remains firmly on the table if diplomacy fails. The administration has made clear that Iran will face serious consequences if it refuses to curb its nuclear program.
Trump later described the talks as “very good” and confirmed additional meetings are planned in the coming days. At the same time, he warned that failure to reach an agreement would result in “very steep” consequences.
Trump Keeps Military Options Front and Center
The president has repeatedly stated that America will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. During previous confrontations, Trump ordered the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and additional naval forces to the region, underscoring his willingness to use force if necessary.
Defense analysts note that including the CENTCOM commander in negotiations is rare, but likely intentional — designed to reinforce deterrence and remind Iran that U.S. military capabilities are unmatched.
Army Secretary Takes Key Role in Ukraine Peace Effort
While Iran talks continue, Trump has also elevated Army Secretary Dan Driscoll into a central role in negotiations aimed at ending Russia’s nearly four-year war in Ukraine.
Driscoll has attended multiple rounds of talks and has maintained steady communication with Ukrainian officials between sessions, helping keep discussions alive during tense pauses in formal negotiations.
Sources familiar with the talks say Driscoll has effectively become a liaison between Ukrainian leadership and Trump’s negotiating team, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner.
Military Experience Seen as an Asset, Not a Liability
Unlike career diplomats, Driscoll brings direct military experience to the table. A former Army armor officer, he served more than three years on active duty and deployed to Iraq from 2009 to 2010.
Supporters argue that this background allows him to better evaluate battlefield realities, security guarantees, and enforcement mechanisms — areas where traditional diplomacy often falls short.
During recent talks in Abu Dhabi, Driscoll was joined by Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Europe. Together, they helped reopen direct military-to-military communication channels between the United States and Russia for the first time in four years.
U.S. officials say the renewed dialogue is intended to reduce miscalculation and support long-term stability as negotiations continue.
Critics Complain — Trump Pushes Results
Some former officials from past administrations have criticized Trump’s approach, arguing it places too much emphasis on military power. But others point out that U.S. presidents have long relied on trusted military leaders during critical moments, including during Cold War arms control talks.
Trump’s allies say the difference is clear: instead of endless process and vague promises, the administration is focused on outcomes — peace through strength, backed by credible consequences.
As negotiations with Iran and Ukraine continue, the White House has made one thing unmistakable: diplomacy under Trump will not come without leverage.
