TRUMP’s security strategy focuses on profit, not spreading democracy

Sunday, December 7, 2025 -The newly released U.S. National Security Strategy (NSS) under Donald J. Trump signals a sharp pivot away from decades of U.S. foreign-policy tradition that framed America as a champion of democracy. 

Instead, the document frames national security primarily in terms of economic interests, trade, stability, and strategic advantage — rejecting attempts to impose democratic or social change on other countries. Analysts describe the shift as moving from “spreading democracy globally” to “maximizing profit and advancing U.S. interests first.”

Under the new strategy, the United States is repositioning its military and diplomatic efforts. The focus shifts away from global hotspots like the Middle East and toward reasserting influence over the Western Hemisphere, managing migration, securing supply chains, and reinforcing the defense-industrial base. 

The NSS urges stronger economic and resource-based partnerships, notably favoring commercial ties and energy interests over ideological commitments. Meanwhile, Europe — once treated as a central democratic ally — is critiqued for migration policies, climate regulations, and social trends, with the strategy warning of “civilizational erasure” and encouraging Europe to bear its own defense burden.

This transformation of U.S. foreign policy has sparked alarm among critics. They warn that de-emphasizing democracy and human rights undermines America’s global moral leadership, damages trust among traditional allies, and risks empowering authoritarian regimes that welcome uncritical business deals. 

Others argue the shift may trade long-term influence for short-term economic gains — a gamble that could reshape global alliances and weaken democratic values worldwide.