The Trump administration has issued a stark warning about Europe’s future, claiming the continent faces the threat of “civilisational erasure” and may soon struggle to remain a reliable US ally. The assertions
are part of a sweeping 33-page National Security Strategy (NSS) released on Friday, outlining President Donald Trump’s global vision and priorities for American military and economic power.
Calling the document a “roadmap” to ensure the US remains “the greatest and most successful nation in human history,” Trump placed unusual emphasis on Europe, reflecting tensions over migration, climate policies and waning Western influence.
Europe Under Threat, Says NSS
The strategy claims Europe could become “unrecognisable in 20 years or less” if current trends continue. It cites mass migration, declining birthrates, loss of national identity, foreign influence, and political censorship as key drivers of the alleged decline.
“It is far from obvious whether certain European countries will have economies and militaries strong enough to remain reliable allies,” the document states.
It accuses the European Union and other international organizations of undermining sovereignty and suppressing political freedoms, while praising the rise of “patriotic European parties.” The Trump administration has previously cultivated ties with Germany’s far-right AfD, which German intelligence classifies as extremist.
Berlin Pushes Back
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul rejected the critique, saying Germany “does not need outside advice” and emphasizing that NATO should remain focused strictly on security issues.
“Our free societies don’t require such commentary,” he added.
Russia, Ukraine and European Security
The document argues that Europe lacks “self-confidence” in dealing with Russia, asserting that the US must remain heavily involved. Ending the war in Ukraine is described as a core American interest.
The Trump administration’s own proposal to end the conflict initially calling for Ukraine to cede territory to Russian control has been revised after pushback. Moscow has insisted Ukraine must withdraw from the Donbas region or face forcible removal.
A Hemispheric Shift in US Military Strategy
The NSS signals a major shift in US defence posture, calling for the redeployment of American military assets toward the Western Hemisphere to counter threats in the Caribbean and Latin America.
The US has already increased its military presence there, including deploying the USS Gerald Ford, the world’s largest warship, and conducting repeated strikes on vessels allegedly carrying drugs from Venezuela.
China, the Pacific, and Taiwan
Beyond the Americas, the strategy identifies the South China Sea as a crucial shipping route central to US economic interests. It pledges to strengthen and harden the US military presence in the Western Pacific and urges Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Taiwan to boost defence spending.
Deterring conflict over Taiwan, “ideally by preserving military overmatch,” is described as a priority. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force.
A Push for Industrial Resilience
The strategy also stresses reducing US dependence on foreign technologies, aligning with Trump’s extensive global tariffs and efforts to rebuild America’s industrial base.
