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US strategy document raises alarm over Europe's future
The Trump administration has released a 33-page National Security Strategy that questions Europe's ability to remain a dependable ally, warning of potential "civilisational erasure" if current trends persist. The document, described by President Donald Trump as a "roadmap" to maintain America's global dominance, has drawn sharp reactions from European leaders.
Key concerns over Europe's trajectory
The strategy argues that Europe could become "unrecognisable within 20 years" due to economic instability, declining military strength, and what it calls the erosion of national identity. It specifically criticises the European Union and other international bodies for allegedly undermining sovereignty, suppressing free speech, and fostering political divisions through migration policies.
The document also highlights plummeting birth rates and a loss of cultural confidence as existential threats, asserting that some European nations may no longer possess the economic or military capacity to be reliable partners.
Push for nationalist revival and US priorities
In contrast to its criticism of mainstream European policies, the strategy praises the rise of "patriotic European parties" and urges the US to support their efforts to revitalise national identity. This aligns with the Trump administration's outreach to far-right groups, including Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD), which domestic intelligence agencies have classified as extremist.
The document also emphasises the need to counter foreign influence, curb mass migration, and prioritise US interests, such as combating drug cartels. It frames these issues as central to preserving Western civilisation.
European leaders reject US critique
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul dismissed the strategy's comments on European society, stating that the US remains Germany's most critical NATO ally but that internal governance issues are not open to external advice. "Questions of free expression and how we organise our societies are not up for discussion," he said.
"The United States is and will remain our most important ally in the [NATO] alliance. This alliance, however, is focused on addressing security policy issues."
Johann Wadephul, German Foreign Minister
Focus on Russia, China, and military realignment
The strategy describes Europe as lacking "self-confidence" in its dealings with Russia, particularly in the context of Moscow's ongoing war in Ukraine. It asserts that US involvement is essential to managing European-Russian relations and achieving a resolution to the conflict, which it frames as a core American interest.
The Trump administration has previously proposed a peace plan that would require Ukraine to cede territory to Russia, though a revised version was later presented. Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the eastern Donbas region, threatening military action if they refuse.
Shifting military resources to the Western Hemisphere
The document outlines a strategic pivot, prioritising the protection of the Western Hemisphere from external threats. It calls for redeploying military assets from less critical regions to address immediate challenges closer to home, such as drug trafficking. This shift is already evident in the Caribbean, where the US has expanded its presence and conducted strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels. The USS Gerald Ford, the world's largest warship, is currently stationed in the region with its strike group.
China and Taiwan tensions take centre stage
Beyond Europe, the strategy identifies the South China Sea as a vital economic corridor and pledges to bolster US military posture in the Western Pacific. It urges allies like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Taiwan to increase defence spending, framing the deterrence of a conflict over Taiwan as a top priority.
China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has not ruled out using force to achieve reunification. The US strategy aims to maintain military superiority to prevent such an outcome.
Economic nationalism and global tariffs
The document also advocates for strengthening America's industrial base and reducing reliance on foreign technology, echoing the Trump administration's imposition of sweeping tariffs on global imports. This approach reflects a broader push to prioritise domestic production and self-sufficiency in critical sectors.
