The publication of the new U.S. National Security Strategy marks a critical turning point in relations between the United States and Europe. This is not simply an update of American foreign policy priorities; it presents a U.S. vision of Europe that challenges the entire post-war project of European integration and the foundations of international law.

According to the document, the European Union “undermines political liberty”, “suppresses political opposition”, and “censors free speech”, among other unfounded accusations. The Strategy denounces what it interprets as a wider identity and democratic crisis in Europe. Such narratives have long been used by nationalist movements within Europe, but their inclusion in an official U.S. strategic doctrine represents a shift with significant political implications.

At the same time, the Strategy affirms that Europe remains “strategic and vital” for the United States. However, the objective has clearly changed. Washington aims to reshape Europe in ways more closely aligned with American geopolitical interests, reducing the influence of EU institutions and privileging bilateral relations with individual nation states. The call to “correct Europe’s trajectory” effectively legitimises far-right forces opposed to European integration and promotes a return to a Europe of fragmented sovereignties, easier to influence and far less capable of acting as a coherent global actor.

Europe already faces intense pressure on its security posture, particularly regarding the future of Ukraine, along with challenges linked to energy dependence, industrial competitiveness, and the unresolved need for genuine strategic autonomy. Meanwhile, Russia intensifies its hybrid warfare against the European Union through disinformation, political interference, and cyberattacks, exploiting internal divisions. Despite this, the U.S. Strategy calls for “strategic stability with Russia”. While Russia continues its daily aggression, such a stance crossesrisks crossing a red line.

In this context, Europe risks being caught between major powers rather than acting as a political actor capable of determining its own direction. The central issue is clear: a fragmented continent becomes an object of global competition, unable to defend shared values of freedom and equality. Only a united Europe can be a genuine player, able to protect its interests, uphold democratic values, contribute to international stability, and prevent a world where the primacy of nation-states prevails.

Those who fear a strong Europe advocate a return to the old model of isolated nation states. Yet deeper political and cultural integration is the most effective way to defend our values on the global stage. Europe must complete the project envisioned after the Second World War: a political union capable of acting, safeguarding its citizens, and guaranteeing democratic resilience.

Building a stronger, more autonomous, and federal Europe is in our hands. This is not a matter of ideology; it is a necessity.