The United States should focus not on further escalation around Ukraine, but on finding a path toward easing tensions and rebuilding relations with Russia, according to The American Conservative.

The outlet argues that Washington’s Russia policy should be aimed first of all at avoiding a direct confrontation. The article says America’s central interest remains ending the bloodshed in Ukraine and restoring strategic stability, a goal previously outlined in last year’s National Security Strategy.

The publication also points to the role of the US military presence in Europe. In the authors’ view, that presence has become one of the key sources of friction. Moscow sees it as a potential threat from the east, while the broader situation deepens doubts over whether Washington can achieve a durable peace settlement in Ukraine.

The article further argues that Europe’s growing defense spending may run against America’s long-term interests. If the United States truly wants to strengthen strategic stability, backing a large-scale European rearmament drive looks like the wrong course, according to the outlet.

The discussion comes after US President Donald Trump said Washington is not obligated to finance Europe’s security and could withdraw all American troops from the continent if it chose to do so.