The Rest Is Politics: US 136. How Trump’s Defense Doctrine Slams Europe
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Dec 8, 2025 Exploring a dramatic shift in U.S. national security, the hosts discuss the surprising view of immigration as the top security threat. They critique a strategy that distances from post-war ideals, warning about Europe’s reaction and NATO concerns. The conversation reveals a pivot toward Latin America, echoing tones of the Monroe Doctrine, and a reluctance toward confronting China. Debates on border policy suggest a mix of economic motives and political tactics that could jeopardize long-term alliances and reputation.
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Strategic Pivot To The Western Hemisphere
- The 2025 National Security Strategy reorients US priorities toward the Western Hemisphere and immigration as top threats.
- It abandons post‑WWII ideology, framing policy in mercantilist, transactional terms focused on borders and commerce.
Alliances Reduced To Transactions
- The document downplays democracy promotion and reframes alliances as economic transactions rather than ideological partnerships.
- That shift risks weakening long‑term cohesion with allies who share liberal democratic values.
Demand European Burden Sharing
- Push allies to meet defense spending commitments, starting with NATO's 2% threshold.
- Use partnership leverage to keep Europe as a force multiplier rather than abandoning it.
