Media: European diplomats warn US-Russia rapprochement may undermine NATO's core

European diplomats have raised alarms that Washington's growing rapprochement with Moscow could potentially weaken the core foundations of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

Diplomatic sources within NATO indicated a decline in optimism regarding the alliance's future cohesion, Caliber.Az reports via Agence France-Presse (AFP).

One diplomat expressed concern, stating, “The level of optimism is definitely declining. The US has yet to make any concrete decisions, but every day it delivers a new blow to the alliance’s foundations.”

The remarks come in light of US President Donald Trump’s administration's efforts to improve relations with Russia, a move that has caused considerable unease within NATO. The prospect that Washington may eventually align itself with its key adversary, Moscow, has ignited fears within the alliance of a potential shift in US foreign policy that could undermine NATO’s unity. While concerns over a potential pivot toward Russia are mounting, some diplomats within the alliance suggest that President Trump’s dialogue with Moscow could be a strategic maneuver to negotiate a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. 

“This could be a bitter pill to swallow, but if it is just a tactical move, it might be acceptable. However, if this signals a strategic shift, it is certainly a major problem,” said another European diplomat, emphasising the delicate balance between diplomacy and long-term security interests. 

A shift toward rapprochement between Moscow and Washington occurred following the controversial meeting in the White House Oval Office between President Trump and President Zelenskyy. Until now, the negotiation process had favored Moscow, as the US administration effectively removed Russia from political isolation, granting it considerable freedom of action during these talks—freedom far greater than the pressure applied to Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the US continues to not just improve, but build its relationship with Russia on a foundation of cooperation, aiming to resolve sources of tension, including the war in Ukraine. The most troubling aspect for Europe is that NATO appears to have no place in this equation—a reality that Trump had sought to achieve even during his first term in office.

By Naila Huseynova