The Two-Year Anniversary of Why it Matters

A Look at the Past Year and a Preview of What’s Next

Raising my right hand and swearing to tell the truth as I testified before the House Intelligence Committee in the first impeachment of Donald Trump.

Dear Readers,

Today marks two years since I launched Why It Matters and time certainly flies.

When I started this publication, my goal was to explore the challenges confronting our country and the world: from Russia’s war against Ukraine, to conflicts in the Middle East, to the growing threats to American democracy. What began as a small experiment in public analysis has grown into a thriving community of more than 110,000 readers. I’m deeply grateful to each of you for joining me on this journey.

Over the past year, I’ve tackled a wide range of global and domestic issues. “From Syria to Sudan” examined Ukrainian special forces operations against Russian proxies across Africa and the Middle East. Following the 2024 election, I drew on my own experience serving in South Korea to write a long-form piece about Seoul’s struggle against democratic backsliding. I also published a review of the conflict between India and Pakistan, written just after both nations reached a fragile peace - notably without American mediation.

Throughout the year, I’ve continued to share reflections and interviews related to my book, The Folly of Realism: How the West Deceived Itself About Russia and Betrayed Ukraine. Paid subscribers now have full access to this archive, along with upcoming exclusive content and behind-the-scenes insights.

With this anniversary, I’d also like to share a few updates about what’s ahead. I’m particularly excited about a new recurring feature: “Why It Matters: NatSec Situation Updates.” My wife Rachel will (I hope!) join me for candid, informal conversations about national security and world affairs, bringing a bit of humanity and humor to otherwise serious topics.

I’ll also continue publishing monthly security briefings, which summarize the key international and domestic developments of the previous month. The upcoming issue will examine topics ranging from rising hostilities with Venezuela to the recent wave of mass layoffs here at home.

Thank you all for being part of this community and for making Why It Matters what it is today. In a time of uncertainty and upheaval, I find real strength in the thoughtful engagement, questions, and dialogue you bring to this space.

Warmly,
Dr. Alexander S. Vindman
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired)