fortifying

Though the character may be dimwitted, his power comes from fortifying that stupidity with political policy.

Following the phone call, Zelensky said the UK's role "in fortifying Europe's defence and security is important for us".

She had thought they would be trapped in crossfire as Iran-backed groups were fortifying their positions and getting ready to fight, but then "they just vanished in a few hours".

Now California legislators are fortifying the state’s bulwarks against Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the administration’s tactics.

A policy that for decades focused on the fortifying of democratic institutions and human rights will be replaced with rewards for cooperation on immigration, experts say.