Former President Donald Trump released a new National Security Strategy. This strategy is a blistering indictment of European allies and a diatribe for an “America First” strategy. The 33-page document outlines Trump’s vision for U.S. foreign policy and national security, emphasizing a departure from previous commitments and alliances.
In this strategy, Trump boldly declares, “The days of the United States propping up the entire world order like Atlas are over.” Beyond its rhetorical value, this statement marks a significant shift in foreign policy for the United States. In other words, the United States will not have to continue bearing the burden of global security alone. This short document conveys deep skepticism and doubt as to the utility and reliability of European partners. It claims they undermine free speech and democracy itself.
Trump’s strategy attacks European countries for what he sees as self-wrought economic misery from overregulation. He claims that these burdens make it increasingly difficult for Europe to be an effective partner in security efforts around the globe. Furthermore, the document echoes sentiments expressed by Vice President JD Vance at the recent Munich Security Conference, highlighting a shared skepticism about Europe’s commitment to defense.
The strategy offers a chilling glimpse into Europe’s future. It argues that the continent is threatened by “civilizational erasure” under the terms of the so-called “great replacement” theory—a pseudoscientific and racist conspiracy. It argues that Europe lacks the will to defend itself in an era of increasingly aggressive great power competition. This perspective reflects a growing sentiment among certain factions within the U.S. political landscape that question Europe’s resolve and capability in matters of sovereignty and defense.
Moreover, Trump’s document claims that a significant portion of Europeans are denied the democratic expression of their desire for peace with Russia. This claim raises key questions about what people in cities across the continent actually think. It further calls into question whether or not European leaders are really in touch with the sentiments of their fellow Europeans.
Trump is never one to sidestep a controversial remark, and here he takes at least one borderline racist shot – this one aimed at European allies. He believes the United States needs to fundamentally reassess its global strategy. It’s time to understand this new paradigm to show the growing impact of powers such as China. This recognition represents a profound change in U.S. policy. It represents a departure from the previous focus of keeping the United States first and foremost in the world.
The strategy seeks to redefine relationships in the Western Hemisphere while calling for “ending the perception, and preventing the reality, of NATO as a perpetually expanding alliance.” This stance indicates a potential reevaluation of America’s commitments to NATO and its readiness to confront European nations about their roles within the alliance.
In line with these themes, Trump’s strategy advocates for “cultivating resistance to Europe’s current trajectory within European nations.” This eye-catching claim is meant to stir up Europe’s political battlefields. It would be out of step with a rising tide of right-leaning populism across the continent.
The report does not pull any punches on controversial topics, such as the recent and long-standing hostilities in the Middle East. Trump states, “Conflict remains the Middle East’s most troublesome dynamic,” while acknowledging that “the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains thorny.” These types of statements, when and if made, would be a welcome acknowledgment of complex geopolitical realities that demand a more sophisticated approach.
Trump lays out his preferred conception of foreign policy in stark, clear terms. He describes it as pragmatic, realistic, principled, muscular and restrained while deliberately steering clear of the terms ‘pragmatist,’ ‘realist,’ ‘idealist,’ ‘hawkish’ and ‘dovish.’ This rhetorical framing is designed to make his administration’s approaches look fair but tough.
As the world watches, Trump’s National Security Strategy challenges existing norms and illustrates a marked shift in American foreign policy priorities. Such a domestic focus would surely upend international relations. Perhaps most importantly, it will set the tone for how countries interact with one another in our rapidly multipolarizing world.
