ISLAMABAD – United States’ new National Security Strategy did not mention Pakistan, and it raised eyebrows as Washington considers Islamabad as key ally. While the document mentions India briefly, Pakistan and Afghanistan are not referenced at all, signaling a striking shift in U.S. priorities in South Asia and leaving analysts across the region stunned.
Russia welcomed strategy, calling it largely aligned with Moscow’s vision. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed hope that this policy shift will allow both countries to collaborate on resolving the Ukraine conflict, a remarkable departure from decades of tension.
The 29-page strategy no longer lists Russia as a threat. It states that “negotiations for the rapid end of hostilities in Ukraine” are now a core U.S. interest, marking a historic pivot in foreign policy.
Some EU officials and analysts have criticized the strategy as overly sympathetic to Russia. Questions abound: Has the U.S. shifted from ally to adversary? Traditionally focused on Russia, China, and terrorism, U.S. priorities have now moved to Latin America and the Caribbean, leaving European allies uneasy.
Peskov described the strategy as largely aligned with Russia’s vision but emphasized that Moscow is reviewing it carefully before drawing final conclusions. Analysts note that the soft language toward Russia could weaken European influence while efforts to end the Ukraine war continue.
This strategy reflects Trump 2.0’s global vision, turning the “America First” ideology into a bold foreign policy. While India is mentioned briefly, the absence of Pakistan and Afghanistan underscores a selective global focus, raising questions about U.S. intentions in South Asia.
The policy positions Asia as a priority, with detailed attention to China and President Trump’s approach toward the region.
Foreign Policy magazine notes that the strategy has faced criticism for failing to clearly prioritize objectives, align goals with resources, or convey the original presidential intent.
“Dominate America, respect China, weaken Europe, ignore India, withdraw from the Middle East, disregard Africa. US officially admits it can no longer run the world. The retreat from global dominance is welcome, now the rest of us must shape a new world order.”
The report accuses the EU of obstructing U.S. peace efforts in Ukraine and calls for “re-establishing strategic stability” with Russia, claiming this would stabilize European economies. It also pushes for a revival of Western identity, warning that Europe could become unrecognizable within 20 years. The document questions whether European countries have the economic and military strength to remain reliable allies.
