General Martin Dempsey, the 18th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, spoke with Jessica Mathews, President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
General Dempsey discussed the impact of Congressionally mandated spending cuts, or sequestration, on the Defense Department. He focused his comments on U.S. security challenges and international partnerships. In addition, he outlined key elements of the New Defense Strategy unveiled by President Obama back in January.
The nation’s highest-ranking military officer, General Dempsey is also the principal military adviser to the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the National Security Council. Prior to becoming Chairman, he served as the Army’s 37th Chief of Staff.