The Trump administration is reportedly considering the creation of a new intergovernmental group including the U.S., Russia, China, India, and Japan. The proposed “Core 5,” or C5, could serve as an alternative to the G7, with a flexible agenda not bound by the G7’s current framework.
Defense One reported that the idea appeared in an unpublished version of the National Security Strategy. Early discussions reportedly focus on Middle East issues, including potential normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly declined to confirm the documents’ existence. National security experts noted the proposal aligns with the administration’s pragmatic approach, favoring engagement with major powers, including Russia and China, rather than a purely ideological alliance. Torrey Taussig, former director for European affairs on the National Security Council, suggested excluding Europe could signal that the administration views Russia as a dominant regional power.
The December 5 release of the updated National Security Strategy emphasized a shift away from the U.S. assuming sole responsibility for global order, underscoring a focus on strategic stability with Russia while acknowledging ongoing tensions with Europe.
