What the “Make Europe Great Again” Draft Reveals
According to a leaked U.S. national‑security strategy, the Trump administration drafted a plan to draw Poland, Hungary, Italy and Austria closer to Washington. Dubbed “Make Europe Great Again,” the 33‑page outline calls for “patriotic” forces to replace what it describes as a “decayed” European Union.
Targeting Nations with Sympathetic Leaders
The document explicitly names the four countries where right‑leaning or populist governments hold power. In Poland, former deputy prime minister Karol Nawrocki – a vocal Trump supporter – is singled out, while Hungary’s Viktor Orbán has long praised U.S. “America First” policies.
These leadership choices suggest Washington is banking on personal rapport to bypass EU institutions and create bilateral security‑economic deals.
Undermining Traditional EU Parties and Policies
The strategy accuses mainstream European parties of eroding “Western identity” through liberal migration policies. It encourages the rise of nationalist parties that promise tighter borders and “sovereign” decision‑making.
Data from the European Election Study (2023) shows that parties labeled “far‑right” or “populist” have increased their vote share by an average of 6 percentage points across the targeted nations in the last two elections.
A New Cold‑War Style Divide?
Analysts warn that pulling these states away from Brussels could recreate a “political Cold War” across the continent, mirroring the East‑West split of the 20th century. A Council on Foreign Relations briefing notes that any fracture in EU cohesion could weaken collective responses to crises such as the Ukraine conflict, energy security, and cyber‑threats.
Future Trends to Watch
1. Deepening Bilateral Defense Deals
Expect an acceleration of U.S. weapons sales and joint training exercises with the four target countries. For example, Poland already hosts the U.S. Army’s V Corps as a deterrent against Russia.
2. Shifts in EU Budget Priorities
The EU may respond by tightening its cohesion fund criteria, linking disbursements to adherence to democratic standards. Read our analysis of the latest EU fund reforms for deeper insight.
3. Growing Influence of “Patriotic” Media
State‑aligned broadcasters in Poland and Hungary have already amplified anti‑EU narratives. Audience research from Pew Research Center shows a 12 % rise in approval for “national‑first” policy platforms over the past year.
4. Potential Realignment of Trade Networks
Negotiations could see new customs arrangements that bypass EU customs unions, similar to the EU‑Japan Economic Partnership Agreement but oriented toward Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the “Make Europe Great Again” plan officially confirmed?
- While the document is leaked and not formally published, multiple reputable outlets (e.g., Defense One) have verified its authenticity.
- Which EU policies are most at risk?
- The plan targets migration, climate commitments, and the EU’s common foreign‑security policy, aiming to replace them with nationalist alternatives.
- How might this affect ordinary Europeans?
- Potential outcomes include stricter border controls, altered trade terms, and reduced funding for cross‑border projects that benefit regional economies.
- Can the EU counteract this strategy?
- Yes, by reinforcing democratic norms, tightening budgetary conditions, and strengthening the EU’s own strategic autonomy initiatives.
What This Means for You
Whether you’re a voter, business leader, or academic, the emerging “political cold war” could reshape everything from market access to everyday freedoms. Stay informed, question narratives, and consider how transatlantic realignments might impact your sector.
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