Russia has reacted positively to the newly released US National Security Strategy, saying the document reflects views similar to its own geopolitical approach.
The 33-page strategy, introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration this week, argues that Europe is at risk of “losing its civilisational identity” and notably avoids labelling Russia as a significant threat to the United States.
The strategy places focus on countering foreign interference, reducing large-scale migration and opposing what it describes as censorship practices within the European Union.
Some EU officials and policy experts have criticised the framework, questioning its approach to free speech and drawing comparisons to rhetoric commonly used by Moscow.
Speaking to Russia’s state news agency Tass, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the changes in Washington’s tone appear “mostly aligned” with Russia’s own strategic outlook.
“We view this as a constructive shift,” he stated, while noting that Moscow would study the document further before issuing a final assessment.
The revised language where Russia is concerned has raised concerns among European policymakers, who fear it could weaken Western pressure on Moscow as discussions continue over ending the conflict in Ukraine.
The document also accuses the EU of obstructing US attempts to negotiate peace and argues that restoring “strategic balance” with Russia would contribute to economic stability across Europe.
One passage suggests the US should actively support political movements pushing against the EU’s current political direction, and it emphasises the importance of “reviving Western identity”, warning that Europe could be “fundamentally transformed within the next two decades.”
The strategy questions whether some European nations will maintain strong enough economies and defence capabilities to remain dependable allies.
In contrast, the document expresses support for nationalist and Eurosceptic political parties, suggesting that Washington welcomes their influence in reshaping Europe.
As EU representatives continue talks with US officials on a potential Ukraine peace framework, some leaders underscored the value of the longstanding transatlantic partnership — while expressing reservations about the new direction.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the US remains Europe’s closest defence partner through NATO, but argued that cultural debates and questions of domestic free expression should not be part of strategic security planning.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, in a message posted online, reminded US policymakers that “Europe is your closest partner, not your burden,” stressing shared threats and long-term alliances.
Former Swedish prime minister Carl Bildt criticised the document, describing it as politically positioned “even further right than Europe’s far-right movements.”
Meanwhile, reports suggest the US has strengthened ties with Germany’s AfD party — a group designated as far-right by German intelligence agencies.
The strategy also includes plans to intensify operations against alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, with the possibility of military action targeting criminal networks in Venezuela.
It further calls on regional partners including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Australia to increase defence spending.
Criticism within the US has also emerged. Democratic lawmakers argue the new strategy could damage America’s global reputation and long-standing diplomatic relationships.
Colorado lawmaker Jason Crow, who sits on congressional intelligence and defence committees, warned the document could severely weaken Washington’s international influence.
New York Representative Gregory Meeks added that the approach abandons decades of value-driven US foreign policy.