politics
January 25, 2026
FACTBOX: 'Monroe Doctrine upheld in our time' as US updates National Defense Strategy
The document names Russia a ‘persistent threat’ to NATO countries, and says that deterrence of China is viewed as a top priority
TL;DR
- Russia is named a 'persistent' threat to NATO's eastern flank.
- Deterrence of China is a top priority for the US military.
- Europe is expected to take primary responsibility for its own defense and resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
- The US plans extensive modernization of its nuclear forces.
- The US will uphold the Monroe Doctrine in the Western Hemisphere.
- US allies are expected to undertake primary responsibility for their own security.
- The US will not let Iran obtain nuclear weapons.
- North Korea is seen as a 'clear and present danger of nuclear attack on the American Homeland'.
- The US will maintain a 'resource-sustainable' approach to countering Islamic terrorist groups.