U.S. Strategy Aims to Divide Europe, May Instead Unite It

A new U.S. national security plan could split Europe apart. But experts say it might finally force the European Union to stand on its own. The strategy, released December 5, marks a sharp shift. It treats allies like economic rivals. This approach is designed to break European unity on trade and defense. Paradoxically, the plan may have the opposite effect. EU leaders have long discussed "strategic autonomy"—the idea of acting independently from the U.S. in defense and foreign policy. However, progress has been slow. Now, analysts argue the blunt U.S. strategy could be the necessary jolt. Facing a clear demand to look after its own interests, the EU may be pushed to turn its ideas into real action. The coming months will show whether the strategy fractures the transatlantic alliance or forges a more self-reliant Europe.