To the editor:

Although there are so many worrisome aspects of the Donald Trump administration, let’s focus today on the inept president’s inability to manage international affairs.

The recent attacks on two oil shipments near the Persian Gulf has resulted in the fear many Americans have that the United States might get involved in a war with Iran, a much more powerful opponent than Iraq. Not to minimize the seriousness of this activity, but we should absolutely be sure that we have all the facts before acting. It does not give this writer much confidence in a correct outcome because Trump appointed John Bolton, the neo con who has a known history of a desire to attack Iran over the years, as national security adviser. And Trump’s inability to work with our allies is a problem.

Already 1,000 U.S. troops are being sent to the Middle East. One can only trust that there are enough smart and thoughtful advisers in the Defense Department who will influence the president. However, the president’s inability to vet his acting secretary appointments is disgusting. Witness the failure of Secretary Patrick Shanahan and the newest appointment being a former lobbyist for Raytheon, a big contractor for the Defense Department.

Richard Sengpiehl,

Lawrence