The U.S. government has unveiled a new National Security Strategy (NSS) that is poised to reshape American foreign policy, particularly affecting its relationships with Canada and European allies. The NSS emphasizes a focus on U.S. interests, often at the expense of collaborative partnerships, designating the Western Hemisphere as a zone of exclusive U.S. economic and strategic influence. This approach aims to prevent non-Hemispheric competitors, notably China, from establishing a foothold in the region, which includes critical minerals and cyber communication networks.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's efforts to diversify trade and defense relationships beyond the United States may be undermined by the NSS's economic nationalism, which raises concerns about potential economic coercion against allies. In Europe, the NSS highlights the continent's strategic importance more than in previous iterations, although it references Russia less frequently. This shift in focus could inadvertently bolster Russia's influence in Europe, complicating the historically strong transatlantic relationship based on shared democratic values.

The NSS also introduces rhetoric that diverges from NATO's foundational principles, suggesting that demographic changes within member states could affect their commitment to the alliance. Additionally, it advocates for U.S. intervention in European political processes, which raises alarms about the potential erosion of democratic institutions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has criticized aspects of the NSS, labeling certain elements as "unacceptable" and expressing skepticism about the notion that European democracies are under threat from their own political elites. He emphasized the need for Germany and Europe to enhance their security independence from the U.S. while recognizing that a unilateral U.S. foreign policy may not serve American interests.

Concerns have also been voiced regarding U.S. interference in European elections, particularly following a meeting between U.S. Vice President JD Vance and a leader of the hard-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. This has raised questions about the implications for democratic processes in Germany.

European leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron, are responding to the evolving dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine. The U.S. administration is reportedly pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy into a peace deal that aligns with American and Russian interests, raising concerns about Ukraine's sovereignty. In response, European leaders are considering using frozen Russian assets as collateral for a reparations loan to Ukraine, aiming to provide leverage during negotiations.

The NSS reflects a troubling trend in U.S. policy, suggesting a diminishing commitment to the security guarantees established post-World War II and a push for European nations to compromise their foundational principles. This trajectory indicates a desire for a fragmented Europe that is economically dependent on American industry, prompting calls for Europe to pursue greater strategic autonomy and unity in defense, as well as to advocate for its economic interests.