Reports claim U.S. explored alternative ‘five-nation forum’ to sideline ‘declining’ G7 framework

Media reports claim the United States has considered the creation of a five-nation forum involving Russia, China, India and Japan that would operate outside the G7, according to an unpublished draft of Washington’s National Security Strategy.

The proposal, reportedly referred to as the “Core 5,” was said to outline regular summits focused on major global security issues, beginning with Middle East stability. The draft allegedly also suggested a reduced US role in European defence and a stronger emphasis on burden-sharing within NATO, alongside closer bilateral ties with selected EU states.

According to the Defense One news portal, that version circulated before the White House published the unclassified document and reportedly proposed a new group, dubbed the ‘Core 5’, as a forum for dialogue among major powers outside the G7 framework.

The White House has denied the existence of any alternative or classified strategy document, while the Kremlin said it has seen no official confirmation and urged caution.

Russia was suspended from the G7 in 2014 and President Vladimir Putin has stated Moscow has no intention of rejoining the group, arguing its global relevance is declining.