In the United States’ new counterterrorism strategy, Europe has been described as a “hub of terror threats.”
Washington called on European countries to strengthen their counterterrorism measures across the region.
The strategy document states that Europe, which is facing a major threat, has become both “a target of terrorism and a hub for terror threats.”
One of the contributing factors cited in the strategy is uncontrolled mass migration, which, according to the document, has turned Europe into a transit route for terrorists.
The strategy also states:
“Europe must urgently and significantly increase its counterterrorism efforts… It is unacceptable for wealthy NATO allies to serve as centers for terrorist financing, logistics, and recruitment.”
At the same time, the document notes that European countries remain the United States’ most important and long-term partners in counterterrorism efforts. It also calls on Europe — described as the birthplace of Western culture and values — to take action and halt what it calls deliberate decline.
Previously, U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized that the European Union was heading in the wrong direction. Trump criticized the EU over rising government spending and endless imports, while also accusing European countries of failing to utilize their natural resources.