WASHINGTON -- James Carafano, Heritage vice president for national security and foreign policy, and Nile Gardiner, director of Heritage's Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom, released the following response Wednesday to the appointment of Robert O'Brien as National Security Adviser: 

“President Trump has made an excellent choice in appointing Robert O’Brien as his new National Security Adviser. O’Brien’s diplomatic experience and record of national service will serve him well as he steps up to lead the National Security Council – we are confident he will do so with resolve and determination at a time when the enemies of the free world seek to harm the United States, its allies, and global security on several fronts. From confronting our adversaries in Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, to strengthening our closest partnerships with our friends in the U.K., NATO and beyond, O’Brien will be instrumental in safeguarding and advancing U.S. interests in the months to come.”