US no longer ally it once was, Belgian foreign ministry document says: Report

Belgium's foreign ministry said in an internal document that the US is “no longer the ally it has been in the past,” the Financial Times reported Thursday.

The paper, prepared by the ministry's Americas and Caribbean unit in October 2025 and seen by the newspaper, calls for a “thorough re-evaluation” of Belgium's and the EU's relationship with Washington.

It also warns that developments in the US could compromise vital Belgian and EU interests.

The document recommends maintaining engagement with the Trump administration while calibrating Belgian officials' visits and public actions to protect the country's interests. It says Brussels should seek areas of cooperation without being seen by Washington as hostile.

Contacts with US states and major cities should be “significantly reinforced,” the paper says, while also recommending continued discussions with Democratic politicians, engagement with Congress and efforts to identify emerging figures in both parties who could influence future US policy.

The document notes that Trump respects royal families. Since it was drafted, Belgium's King Philippe has visited the US, while Queen Mathilde accompanied Belgian ministers to New York for this week's UN General Assembly, according to the FT.

Trade, defense, security

The ministry identifies economic relations, military spending, migration and cooperation against drug trafficking and organized crime as key issues in managing ties with the US.

On trade, the document warns that deeper engagement could leave Belgium more exposed to disputes and possible US protectionist measures.

“Diversifying our partnerships is more essential than ever,” it concludes.

The document says purchases of American weapons are viewed favorably by the Trump administration but recommends increasing purchases of European military equipment as well.

It identifies the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime as a promising area for cooperation. Belgium is a major entry point for cocaine trafficking through the port of Antwerp, according to the EU Drugs Agency.

However, the leaked document also raises concerns about differences between US and European approaches to drug gangs, surveillance and counterterrorism. It warns that US foreign aid cuts could strengthen criminal organizations by reducing other sources of employment, according to the report.

A Belgian foreign ministry spokesperson told the FT that the paper was an “internal working document” and should be distinguished from an agreed government strategy.

Assessing how changes in US policy affect Belgian interests is part of the ministry's regular work, the spokesperson added.

The White House did not respond to the newspaper's request for comment.