The Pentagon has established a focal point for its efforts to address the problem of sexual assault within the military. It is called the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office. Word of its creation came in December, but the new office actually started operation in October. Its mission presents a tall order: reduce the number of sexual assaults; assist sexual assault victims; and ensure offender accountability.
The U.S. supports “a stronger and more capable” European defense, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III said during an Oct. 22 press conference in Brussels—but that defense should not duplicate the functions and capabilities of the NATO alliance.