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The Trump administration’s newly released National Security Strategy sparked sharp reactions across Europe, where governments and officials rejected the document’s criticisms of the European Union and other regional institutions.
Published by the White House on Thursday evening, the strategy targets the EU and other “supranational structures,” including organizations such as the Council of Europe.
The document accuses these bodies of “undermining political freedom and sovereignty,” claims that migration policies have “transformed the continent and created social conflict,” and alleges that “freedom of expression is censored” and “political opposition is suppressed” in Europe.
It further argues that Europe faces a “near-term collapse,” citing declining birth rates and rising migration as key threats.
The text asserts that “national identities and confidence are being lost.”
On the Ukraine war, the strategy claims European governments have “fueled unrealistic expectations” and “violated core democratic principles to suppress opposition.”
“Most of Europe wants peace, but this desire is hardly reflected in politics, because governments are undermining democratic processes,” it added.
The release drew extensive coverage in German media, with headlines such as “US attacks the EU,” “Trump settling scores with Europe,” and “US administration seeks to support EU opponents.”
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Berlin would review the strategy in detail together with experts, noting that the U.S. remains NATO’s “most important ally.”
However, he rejected the accusations related to free expression and civil rights in Germany.
“These matters are regulated by our constitutional order,” he said, emphasizing the role of the executive, legislative and judicial branches, as well as a free press.
Wadephul added that Germany has long been able to debate such issues “among ourselves” and would continue to do so, concluding, “We do not need advice from anyone outside.”
The European Commission issued a response from Brussels, where spokesperson Paula Pinho said the EU “strongly rejects” the accusations directed at the bloc.
She noted that further comments would follow after officials completed their review of the U.S. strategy document.
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