Germany rebukes US security strategy over criticism of EU

Germany has issued a sharp rebuke of the United States' latest national security strategy, objecting to its criticism of the European Union and its divergent assessment of the Russian threat. During a government briefing in Berlin on Monday, deputy spokesman Sebastian Hille stated Germany "rejects the partly critical comments directed at the EU," framing the US document's accusations as unfounded ideology.

Dispute over core values and strategic analysis

Hille specifically countered the strategy's claims that the EU undermines political liberty and censors free speech. "Political freedoms, including the right to freedom of expression, are among the fundamental values of the EU. We view attacks in this regard as ideology rather than strategy," he stated. Furthermore, Berlin expressed clear disagreement with the US geopolitical analysis, noting the document does not classify Russia as a threat—a view at odds with NATO's joint assessment that Russia remains "a danger and a threat to transatlantic security."

Content of the controversial US document

The 33-page US strategy, released last week, has sparked widespread consternation across Europe. It accuses European governments of suppressing political opposition, particularly targeting far-right movements, and describes the continent as being in economic decline. The document controversially warns of a "real and more stark prospect of civilizational erasure" for Europe within two decades, citing issues like migration policies, low birth rates, and a perceived loss of national identity.

Straining the transatlantic alliance

This public disagreement highlights a significant fissure in transatlantic relations, centering on fundamental values and threat perceptions. The German government's pointed response underscores Europe's growing assertiveness in defending its political model and strategic autonomy. The dispute goes beyond typical policy differences, touching on core principles of democracy and free speech that have long been pillars of the Western alliance.