Washington Softens on Moscow, Warns Europe of ‘20-Year Extinction’
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Washington
- Dec 07, 2025
- 574
The Trump administration has unveiled a major overhaul of its National Security Strategy (NSS), marking a dramatic shift in how the United States views Russia. Under the new framework—rooted in Trump’s “America First” doctrine—the US will no longer classify Russia as a “threat,” a move that Moscow has openly welcomed.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed to TASS that Washington released a 29-page document on Friday, removing the long-standing language that labeled Russia a “direct threat” or adversary. This represents one of the most significant policy reversals since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea, and the subsequent escalation in 2022 during the wider invasion of Ukraine.
A Softer Line on Russia, a Sharper One on Europe
The new NSS encourages selective cooperation with Moscow, even as it sharply rebukes Europe. Trump’s strategy notes that Europe is “on the path to extinction,” citing demographic decline, mass immigration, and what it calls a dilution of national identity. The document further argues that many European nations have become militarily weak and may no longer remain dependable US allies within the next two decades.
At the core of the updated strategy is Trump’s principle of “flexible realism”—a foreign policy approach guided strictly by what benefits America most. The document emphasizes the need for a rapid end to the Ukraine war, describing it as a key US objective, while stressing the urgency of restoring strategic stability with Russia to prevent any future nuclear arms race or a major conflict in Europe.
Why Trump Made This Shift — 5 Key Reasons
1. Direct Benefit to America
Experts note that Trump has long argued the US gains nothing by constant confrontation with Russia. He has repeatedly praised Vladimir Putin and insisted he could end the Ukraine war “within 24 hours” through a negotiated settlement.
2. Ending the Ukraine War Quickly
Trump does not want the US pouring billions into arming Ukraine indefinitely. A swift settlement, he believes, would reduce financial pressure and refocus resources domestically.
3. Strategic Pressure on China
The new NSS labels China as “the greatest long-term threat” to the United States. Trump believes prolonged conflict with Russia pushes Moscow closer to Beijing—strengthening America’s main rival.
4. “Teaching Europe a Lesson”
Trump has expressed frustration that European nations depend heavily on US security support while spending relatively little themselves. His message to Europe is blunt: “If you care so much about Ukraine, fight for it yourselves.”
5. Commercial and Geopolitical Leverage
Analysts suggest key figures in Trump’s circle—particularly Jared Kushner—see potential for lucrative trade deals with Russia and Gulf nations once the war ends. American companies may also secure major reconstruction contracts in post-war Ukraine.
A Tough Warning to Europe
The NSS delivers one of the strongest critiques of Europe ever issued by a US administration. Trump warns that if Europe continues on its current trajectory, it may “cease to exist within 20 years.”
The document accuses European institutions of undermining sovereignty, suppressing dissent, and allowing identity-eroding immigration flows. In contrast, it praises the rise of “patriotic parties” across Europe and urges US allies to revive a stronger sense of national purpose.