Overview
- Defense One and Politico report that an unpublished draft of the National Security Strategy described a proposed Core 5 forum of the United States, China, Russia, India and Japan.
- Coverage says the first topic under consideration for the group would be Middle East security, including steps toward normalising relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
- The reported membership reflects population size and economic potential rather than democratic or wealth criteria, effectively excluding Europe and contrasting with the G7.
- White House spokesperson Anna Kelly denies any alternate or private version of the 33‑page strategy document, and no government has confirmed participation in a new forum.
- Experts quoted across outlets say the concept fits a transactional, non‑ideological approach and follows an official strategy that emphasizes what works for America and seeks strategic stability with Russia.