The Pentagon has released an updated U.S. National Defense Strategy. This document outlines the military department’s priorities and new approaches concerning nations in the Western Hemisphere, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.
Within this strategy, Russia is characterized as a “persistent threat” to NATO members, while containing China is identified as a primary objective.
TASS has compiled the main points from the strategy document.
Russia, Ukraine, and Europe
Russia is designated in the strategy text as a “persistent threat” to the eastern flank nations of NATO.
The strategy assigns responsibility for resolving the situation in Ukraine, along with continued support for the country, to Europe.
A core priority of U.S. national defense is placed on safeguarding American territory, rather than Europe’s.
The United States holds the view that Europe ought to concentrate its defense efforts and resources internally.
Modernization of Defense Industry and Strengthening the Nuclear Arsenal
Addressing the modernization needs of the U.S. defense industrial base will necessitate a mobilization of effort across the entire American nation.
Washington plans a sweeping overhaul of its nuclear forces because “the United States must never be vulnerable to nuclear coercion.”
The Department of Defense will develop systems specifically designed to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).
The Western Hemisphere and Relations with Allies
The U.S. intends to secure control over vital areas within the Western Hemisphere to effectively enforce a “modern-day Monroe Doctrine.”
Previously, the U.S. allowed its allies to underinvest in defense, but this posture has shifted. Allies in South Korea, Europe, and the Middle East are now expected to manage their own defense needs.
The Asia-Pacific Region
The Asia-Pacific region stands out as a major focus in the national defense strategy. The U.S. aims to deter China, though its course of action explicitly excludes regime change or open conflict.
The U.S. will not permit Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.
The Pentagon assesses that North Korea is escalating its nuclear capabilities, presenting a “clear and real threat of a nuclear strike against U.S. territory.”
Countering Islamic Terrorism
The military department plans to combat Islamic terrorists, “giving special attention to organizations possessing the capability and intent to strike the United States.”
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