Military.com reports that “U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter expressed confidence Thursday that under the Trump administration the U.S. will remain central to the international coalition fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria.”

“‘While I cannot speak for the next administration, I’m confident that based on the results we’re seeing and the strength of our coalition, the United States and its military will continue to be with you as a leading partner in this campaign,’ Carter said, in kicking off his final war-planning conference with core members of the coalition.”

“The meeting got underway against the backdrop of questions about what Donald Trump’s arrival in the White House next month will mean for the future of the coalition.”