Sometimes, the threat of potential military action serves a purpose, even if that action is never taken. Theodore Roosevelt once suggested, “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” When Trump explicitly states that he will not exercise our power and when he undermines its credibility, he is throwing down that stick. It is time to restore truth and moral clarity in the White House. It is time to rethink the economics of human rights.

David Pring-Mill is a media and communications consultant to startups, NGOs and political causes.

Image: Reuters.