National Security

Petraeus: U.S. ‘ambivalent’ about defense even as threats increase

By Jacqueline Klimas

Published February 1, 2017 5:11pm ET

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Petraeus: U.S. ‘ambivalent’ about defense even as threats increase — "When the most egregious violations of the most basic principles of the international order we helped shape are tolerated or excused, that lack of action undermines the entire system —" and is an invitation to further challenges," retired Gen. David Petraeus said. (AP Photo/Richard Drew) | Richard Drew

America has become “somewhat ambivalent” about its defense at the same time that it faces “unprecedented” threats to the world order from Russia, China and Islamic extremists, retired Gen. David Petraeus told House lawmakers on Wednesday.

Petraeus, the former director of the CIA, testified before a House Armed Services Committee hearing that America can’t do “everything, everywhere,” but urged the country to step up when its interests are threatened.

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