In the transition between administrations, while domestic violence raged, no foreign adversary tested the United States — an apparent kumbaya period of goodwill among friend and foe alike.

U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said of Joe Biden, “I look forward to working with him and his new administration, strengthening the partnership between our countries.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu added, “I wish you the greatest success. God bless the United States. God bless Israel.” And a spokeswoman from the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, “I hope China and the U.S. could meet each other halfway in the spirit of mutual respect.” But there are warning signs.