If there’s a Trump global doctrine, it may not be “America first.” Rather, it might be that a path to peace must be preceded by a show of power.

The latest evidence: Today’s news reports that President Trump is weighing plans to increase the US military presence in both Syria and Afghanistan. Sending more US soldiers to Afghanistan would be a major reversal of former President Barack Obama’s policy of withdrawal from America's longest-running war. Supporters argue Mr. Trump’s move is designed to force the Taliban into peace talks.

It might be too strong to call these steps a “doctrine,” but they are suggestive of a pattern of thought. Trump orders a cruise missile attack on Syria, he says North Korea is "looking for trouble," he threatens to cancel NAFTA, he calls NATO "obsolete" – and China a "currency manipulator." His opening salvos – rhetorical and actual – seem intended to put adversaries on uncertain footing. And then, often, a more moderate position emerges. Understanding the pattern helps reporters, and citizens, not to overreact.

Here are our five stories for today.