Former Defense Secretary Gates criticizes White House's slow approval of weapons to Ukraine.

Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates expressed concern over the dysfunction in the US political system, which feeds the narrative from China that their model is more stable and effective. He believes the biggest threat to the US is polarization and the lack of civility among politicians. Gates criticized Senator Tommy Tuberville for placing a hold on senior military promotions until the Pentagon reverses its policy on covering expenses for service members who travel to have abortions. He also emphasized the need for direct communication between US and Chinese military commanders to avoid a catastrophic conflict. Gates supports the approach of high fences around small yards in managing the economic relationship with China.