institute of europe
the institute of europe of the russian academy of sciences
Analytical paper IE RAS No 6, 2026 «2026 U.S. National Defense Strategy: Implications for the Security of the Russian Federation in the European Context»
- 09 February 2026
IE RAS presents Analytical papers of IE RAS No 6, 2026 «2026 U.S. National Defense Strategy: Implications for the Security of the Russian Federation in the European Context» (in Russian) by Sergey Grinyaev, Doctor of Technical Sciences, Chief Researcher at the Center for Arctic Research of the Department of Country Studies, Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences.
The article analyzes the 2026 U.S. National Defense Strategy with focus on implications for the security of the Russian Federation in the European region. The author examines the conceptual foundations of the "America First" approach and "Peace Through Strength" doctrine. Special attention is given to the reassessment of the European theatre's role in the U.S. strategic priorities, mechanisms for redistribution of commitments among NATO allies, and consequences of these transformations for Russian interests. The paper identifies major challenges and risks for Moscow, including qualitative enhancement of NATO’s military potential in Europe, strengthening of Alliance defense systems integration, and potential escalation of tensions on the eastern flank. The author highlights Russia's opportunities to adapt to the new conditions of strategic competition in short- and medium-term.
