Trump’s 2025 NSS: A game-changing strategy reshaping global alliances and rivalries

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by News 18, click this post to read the original full article.

President Donald Trump’s National Security Strategy (NSS) for 2025 outlines a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in its approach to Russia, Europe, and India. The document notably softens the rhetoric towards Russia, emphasizing the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict as a core U.S. interest while prioritizing immediate stability over a complete condemnation of Russian actions. This contrasts sharply with the NSS’s critical stance towards European leaders, who are described as having unrealistic expectations regarding the Ukraine war and being politically unstable, suggesting a need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense.

In terms of relations with India, the strategy reflects a downgrade in the significance previously given to the partnership. Unlike the 2017 NSS, which celebrated India’s emergence as a key strategic ally, the 2025 document opts for a more reserved approach, focusing on improving commercial relations and briefly mentioning the Quad alliance. This shift is underscored by the controversial claim that Trump negotiated peace between Pakistan and India after a military confrontation, a statement rejected by New Delhi.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the new NSS is its complete omission of any critical references to Pakistan, marking a departure from the 2017 strategy that urged Pakistan to enhance its counterterrorism efforts. This change suggests a recalibration of U.S. policy towards Islamabad, moving away from public criticism, which may be viewed favorably by Pakistan but raises concerns in India. Overall, the 2025 NSS indicates a strategic pivot towards narrowly defined American interests, reduced involvement in European conflicts, and a more transactional approach to key Asian partnerships.