The Global Story Why the US says Europe is facing ‘civilisational erasure’
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Dec 11, 2025 
Tom Bateman, BBC State Department correspondent, discusses the Trump administration's radical approach to US foreign policy. He explains how the new National Security Strategy shockingly portrays Europe as facing 'civilizational erasure' and criticizes its traditional alliances. Bateman highlights concerns over migration, the shift toward economic nationalism, and the focus on Russia's favorable positioning. He also explores the implications for transatlantic ties and the rise of nationalist parties in Europe, painting a picture of a dramatically altered geopolitical landscape.
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A Radical Shift In US Strategy
- The 2025 US National Security Strategy departs sharply from post-WWII consensus by prioritizing economic nationalism over multilateralism.
- It frames migration and multilateral institutions as threats to Western identity rather than issues to be managed cooperatively.
Europe Called At Risk Of Erasure
- The Europe section criticises multilateralism and migration and warns Europe risks "civilizational erasure."
- That harsh language surprised and alarmed European leaders because other rivals get little criticism in the document.
Munich Speech Shocked Europeans
- Tom Bateman recounts Vice President J.D. Vance's Munich speech berating European leaders for 'feckless liberalism' and curbs on free expression.
- Vance argued Europe had closed minds on migration and cultural identity, marking an extraordinary attack on European politics.