Crises Undercut Support for Obama's Long Game in Foreign Policy

Attempts to Keep Distance From Daily Melee Lead to Uncomfortable Moments

By Carol E. Lee WSJ
Aug. 6, 2014 7:50 p.m. ET

President Barack Obama spoke at a press conference during the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington D.C. on Wednesday, addressing the Ebola outbreak and peacekeeping efforts in Africa. Photo/Video: WhiteHouse.gov

WASHINGTON—President Barack Obama and his top aides believe they are putting in place a new global security structure that will frame international relations for decades.

Every day, however, brings a split-screen contrast between the White House's confidence in its long-term strategy and the daily chaos playing out from Ukraine to the Middle East.

The disconnect is reflected in the president's declining poll ratings. The Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll released this week shows Americans' approval of his foreign-policy record at a new low of 36%.

Richard Haass, president of the Council on Foreign Relations, said Mr. Obama has contributed to the confusion about his goals. "It's not clear in many cases what he is trying to achieve," he said.

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