The Trump administration has released a new National Security Strategy that calls for increased defence spending among Indo-Pacific allies while delivering a stark warning to Europe about its geopolitical vulnerabilities. This 33-page document outlines a shift in focus towards protecting American interests closer to home and emphasizes the need for allies to contribute more significantly to collective security efforts, particularly in countering China’s influence.
The strategy, unveiled by the White House, places Japan and South Korea at the forefront of its defence priorities in the Indo-Pacific, while Australia’s role appears to be downplayed. The document asserts that “the American military cannot, and should not, have to do this alone,” and urges allies to enhance their military spending and capabilities.
This approach reflects a growing concern over China’s assertiveness in the region. The strategy maintains that the United States will oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo concerning Taiwan and will ensure that it can respond effectively to aggression within the first island chain.
In addition to defence commitments, the strategy addresses economic relations, calling on allies like Australia to collaborate in counteracting predatory economic practices. It highlights the need for a collective economic strategy to safeguard allied economies and prevent them from becoming subordinate to competing global powers.
According to the document, the United States has made it clear to its allies that its current account deficits are unsustainable, urging nations such as Canada, Mexico, and those in Europe and Asia to adopt trade policies that rebalance China’s economy. The strategy specifically mentions the Quad—comprising the US, Australia, Japan, and India—as a framework for enhancing security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
In a notable departure from previous policies, the strategy revives the historical Monroe Doctrine, which aimed to limit European interference in the Americas. The Trump administration adds a new “Trump Corollary,” asserting that it will deny any external powers the ability to control strategic assets in the Western Hemisphere, particularly in light of China’s increasing presence in Latin America.
The most significant shift, however, is in the US’s stance towards Europe. The strategy warns that Europe faces the risk of “civilisational erasure” due to various factors, including erosion of national sovereignty by the European Union, mass migration, and a decline in birth rates. The document expresses a desire for Europe to regain its “civilisational self-confidence” and to take responsibility for its own security, particularly regarding its relationship with Russia.
Emily Harding, Vice President for Defence and Security at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, describes the strategy as “a shocking wake-up call” for Europe. She notes that this moment marks a divergence between Europe’s self-perception and the American administration’s expectations. Harding emphasizes that the Trump administration is demanding that Europe take on a greater role in ensuring its own security and funding those efforts.
The National Security Strategy underscores a pivotal moment in international relations, urging allies to enhance their military and economic commitments to counter shared challenges. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the implications of this document will likely resonate across alliances and partnerships for years to come.
