US no longer considers Russia to be a 'direct threat'
What's the story
The United States has revised its national security strategy, no longer designating Russia as a "direct threat." The change was welcomed by the Kremlin, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov calling it a "positive step." The updated 29-page document emphasizes President Donald Trump's foreign policy vision of "flexible realism" and prioritizes what works best for America.
Policy focus
US seeks quick resolution to Ukraine conflict
The revised strategy aims for a quick resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It seeks to re-establish "strategic stability" with Moscow, despite Russia's actions in Ukraine being a central security concern. The document was released amid stalled US peace initiatives that presented a proposal including elements aligning with Russia's main demands in the nearly four-year-old war.
Criticism
Trump's administration faces criticism for soft stance on Russia
Trump's administration has faced criticism for its soft stance on Russia, even as it maintained sanctions over Moscow's actions in Ukraine. European allies have also expressed concern that the softer US language might weaken efforts to confront Russia amid the ongoing conflict. This is the first national security strategy document since Trump returned to office in January.