The US presidential administration has published a new national security strategy that clearly emphasizes that the United States will strengthen its military presence in the Western Hemisphere in the coming years, combating migration, drug trafficking, and the influence of rival countries in the region. The document presents Trump's foreign policy approaches in his second term and notes that "border security is a key element of national security."
US priority: strengthening the southern border
The new strategy gives special attention to Latin America, the Caribbean, and the southern border of the United States. Washington plans to increase the presence of the Coast Guard and Navy to control illegal migration, drug trafficking, and sea lanes.
At the same time, it is noted that US alliances in the region should depend on the extent to which local governments will curb the influence of foreign powers.
The strategy also emphasizes that the United States will work with neighboring countries to increase American companies' participation in strategic investments and raw-material sourcing in the region.
Approaches to Europe, China, and Russia
The document is sharply critical of specific European processes, suggesting that increased migration could alter Europe's identity and affect the US-Europe alliance in the long term.
The strategy towards China emphasizes the need for economic rebalancing. Still, it avoids a crisis tone, noting that the United States wants to maintain "mutually beneficial relations" and prevent an escalation of tensions in Asia.
Regarding Russia, the document is relatively mild, stating only that the United States needs to contribute to a rapid end to the war in Ukraine and reduce the risk of conflict in Europe.
The overall picture
Trump's new strategy focuses US forces on its own region while presenting a more selective, sometimes defensive foreign policy. However, it is not yet clear to what extent it will become a real political line, given international developments and Trump's volatile decision-making style.
