After the Russian attack on Ukraine, this is the second turning point for Europe. For the first time since the end of the Second World War, the USA would no longer be on the side of the Europeans. They are no longer on the side of Ukraine, against which a brutal war of annihilation is being waged.
Federal Government: Russia remains a threat to peace, freedom and stability
The CDU politician Kiesewetter told the Funke media that the USA under Trump was no longer a classic partner of values. Green Party leader Brantner explained that Europe must invest in its own sovereignty in response. Examples she cited included digital infrastructure and access to critical raw materials.
The deputy spokesman for the federal government, Hille, said in Berlin that the US document does not classify Russia as a threat. NATO’s assessment remains that Russia is a threat to peace, freedom and stability. Russia has brought the war back to Europe, said Hille, referring to Ukraine.
Costa opposes interference in intra-European affairs
EU Council President Costa protested against American interference in intra-European affairs. Costa said at an event in Brussels that Europe would not accept such a thing. The USA cannot decide on behalf of European citizens which are the good and which are the bad parties. People have different world views, but this goes too far.
In the US document published last week, Europe is no longer portrayed as a close ally, but rather assumes fundamental conflicts of interest. Instead of the transatlantic partnership, the USA wants to put its interests first in the future, it says. It also paints a bleak picture of the alleged situation in Europe, which is characterized by failed migration policies, censorship, suppression of political opposition and the loss of national identities.
No more NATO expansion
The paper from the White House also rejects NATO expansion. Washington is once again disappointing Ukraine’s hopes of joining the transatlantic alliance. At the same time, the strategy is an indication that the Trump administration has drawn closer to Russia, which has been resisting NATO’s eastward expansion for years. The government of Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden wanted to “restrict” Russia’s claim to power, as the “Washington Post” highlights – such formulations cannot be found in the new paper.
This message was sent on December 8th, 2025 on the Deutschlandfunk program.
