For my generation the relationship with Europe was the central point of American foreign policy. Even during my time in government there was disagreement, sometimes very strong disagreement. But they were all like arguments within a family. I am not sure if the generation which doesn't have these experiences has the same view of things.

The Russian empire under czars and commissars has been hard to deal with for other countries.

One thing I don't want around me is a military intellectual. I don't have to worry about you on that score.

If we do what is necessary, all the odds are in our favor.

Whenever a new president comes in, people that are used to the previous president wonder if he has the same capacity.

Well, on the American side, every new administration has to cut its teeth in a crisis, because before a crisis, you don't really know what your various subordinates are thinking under stress.

Power is the ultimate aphrodisiac.