Thomas W Ohlson

Former U.S. diplomat and Army crash-rescue pilot. Served in Russia, Afghanistan, the UN Mission in NYC, and SOUTHCOM. Holds an M.A. in Political Science. Self-described Rockefeller Republican.

Reality Check: US Foreign Relations

Much of the feedback I receive from various articles question why U.S. foreign policy is so defensive/aggressive. Let me begin by saying that I am far from being

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ May 30, 2012

Afghanistan & the Struggle with Central Governance

Last October, the War in Afghanistan reached its 10-year anniversary. Our invasion of Afghanistan was launched as a direct result of the events of 9/11, with a goal to

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ May 14, 2012

Afghanistan & the Struggle with Central Governance

Where's Obama's Environmental Agenda?

We are a very polarized nation when it comes to environmental issues. These days, it seems as if Democrats MUST embrace any environmental cause, no matter how small, and that

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ April 19, 2012

Beyond Politicized Rhetoric, Where Does Russia Stand?

President Obama’s recent open-mic gaffe while speaking with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev prompted Republican presidential contender Gov. Mitt Romney to declare: “It is always Russia, typically with China alongside,

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ April 3, 2012

Beyond Politicized Rhetoric, Where Does Russia Stand?

\If You're Not Part of the Solution...\: UN Peacekeeping Needs Overhaul

It is often said that peacekeeping is a growth industry. However, this should never preclude the United Nations from finding a better way to do business. Since 1948, the UN

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ March 27, 2012

\If You're Not Part of the Solution...\: UN Peacekeeping Needs Overhaul

Pull My Finger: Facts About Global Warming

I have supported many environmental causes over the years, especially wildlife conservation. I am so passionate about these issues, that I have embarked upon a doctoral program to further explore

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ March 10, 2012

Pull My Finger: Facts About Global Warming

The Gospel According to Ron Paul

Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul has amassed a loyal legion of followers. Congressman Paul’s libertarian-leaning views on domestic issues seem to resonate with many voters. For the record, I

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ March 1, 2012

Red Tape vs. Red Scare: The Bureaucratic Aversion to War and Iran

In the last Republican Debate, the issue of Iran’s attempt to develop fissile material for a nuclear weapon was brought up as it has been in most of the

By Thomas W Ohlson

/ February 29, 2012

Red Tape vs. Red Scare: The Bureaucratic Aversion to War and Iran