Russia has signalled approval of the United States’ newly released National Security Strategy, arguing that the document moves Washington’s worldview closer to Moscow’s own strategic outlook.
The 33-page strategy, unveiled by the Trump administration this week, frames Europe as a continent at risk of “civilisational decline” and notably avoids portraying Russia as a primary adversary — a shift that has alarmed several EU governments.
Moscow Calls Strategy a ‘Positive Signal’
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told state news agency Tass that the changes in the US document appear “in line with Russia’s vision” of global security, calling the tone “a positive step”.
He added that Moscow would continue to study the report before issuing a full assessment.
EU Officials Warn of Softer Stance Toward Russia
Across Europe, diplomats and analysts reacted with unease.
Many expressed concern that the strategy’s language could dilute Washington’s pressure on Moscow at a critical moment in the Ukraine war.
The report accuses the EU of obstructing US attempts to reach a settlement in Ukraine and argues that restoring “strategic stability with Russia” would strengthen Europe’s economies.
The paper also urges Washington to counter what it calls Europe’s “current trajectory,” encouraging stronger ties with nationalist and “patriotic” parties across the continent — language critics say mirrors long-standing Kremlin narratives.
Claims of ‘Civilisational Erasure’ Stir Debate
Among the most contentious passages are dramatic warnings that Europe may become “unrecognisable” within two decades and could face a “civilisational erasure” unless its political direction changes.
The strategy questions whether European militaries and economies will remain strong enough to act as dependable allies.
Mixed Reactions From European Leaders
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul cautioned that issues such as societal values and freedom of expression should not be embedded in a national security blueprint.
“Germany sees NATO as a defence alliance, not a forum for cultural debates,” he said.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk issued a public message to Americans emphasising Europe’s role as Washington’s closest partner. “Europe is your ally, not your problem,” he wrote, adding that the two sides face “common enemies”.
Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt was more blunt, arguing the strategy “positions itself to the right of the extreme right”.
Ties With Far-Right Groups Under Scrutiny
The Trump administration’s continued engagement with Germany’s AfD — a party labelled extremist by German security agencies — drew renewed attention following the report’s release.
Broad Foreign Policy Shift Beyond Europe
Outside Europe, the strategy pledges tougher action against alleged drug-smuggling operations in the Caribbean and Pacific regions, and even hints at potential military steps in Venezuela.
It also calls for increased defence spending by US allies in Asia, including Japan, South Korea, Australia and Taiwan.
Democrats Warn of Global Fallout
US lawmakers from the Democratic Party criticised the document sharply.
Representative Jason Crow described it as “catastrophic to America’s standing”, while Representative Gregory Meeks argued it abandons decades of principle-based US leadership.
