Letters from an American An Unprepared and Untethered Administration
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Mar 18, 2026 A breakdown of global tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and who will or will not step in. Reporting on Russia’s deeper support for Iran and how that shifts regional warfare. Discussion of U.S. readiness gaps after cuts to State Department energy staff and loss of minesweepers. Coverage of political fights at home over voting rules, court attacks, and efforts to pressure Cuba’s leadership.
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Russia Bolsters Iran With Drones And Intelligence
- Russia expanded military cooperation with Iran, supplying drone components and satellite imagery to strike U.S. forces.
- Reporters say Russia aims to keep Iran engaged to prolong a conflict that benefits Russia militarily and economically.
Strait Disruption Drives Oil And Critical Supply Shocks
- Iran's stoppage of traffic through the Strait is driving oil above $100 and raising gas by about $0.70 per gallon.
- The blockade threatens 20% of global oil, fertilizer supplies, helium for chips and medical cooling, and aluminum availability.
Energy Diplomacy Staff Cuts Left U.S. Unprepared
- The State Department had cut its Bureau of Energy Resources staff last fall, including the sole expert on tracking sanctioned tankers.
- Laid-off officials said there was no handover and that the administration did not prepare for a global oil crisis.