Despite ongoing discussions about isolationism and changes in the style of American politics, the U.S. is not withdrawing from its global security role. General David Petraeus, Member of the KSF Security Council, Commander of U.S. Central Command (2008–2010), Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (2011–2012), made this statement during the Kyiv Security Forum Special Session on the Global Situation and the Prospects for Peace in Ukraine "12 Years of Russia's War Against Ukraine: What Comes Next?"

He noted that the slogan "America First" is more and more often interpreted as "America Alone"; however, in his opinion, this interpretation is exaggerated. U.S. history has already seen periods of deep internal turbulence – from protests against the Vietnam War to the political crises of the 1970s. Yet none of these led to a strategic rollback of the country's international role.

David Petraeus acknowledges that the current U.S. President, Donald Trump, negotiates in a fundamentally different manner, demonstrating toughness and a tendency for pressure before dialogue begins. At the same time, real politics is shaped not by rhetoric but by congressional decisions, budgets, and long-term national interests. "It is important to pay attention not only to statements, but to money and politics. Congress did not allow a significant reduction of the U.S. presence in Europe," the U.S. General emphasised.

According to him, the U.S. spends more than twice as much on defence as all European countries collectively, which clearly makes it indispensable to the Western security system.

At the same time, the General stressed that the war in Ukraine has become a catalyst for transformation for armed forces around the world, and that allies must learn rapidly from Ukraine's experience – primarily in the areas of unmanned systems, troop organization, and innovation. "We must change our concept of warfare and our organisational structure. Ukraine already has a separate branch of the armed forces – Unmanned Systems Forces. This is the future," he said.

In the General's opinion, technological solutions enable a country with a smaller economy and population to effectively resist a much larger adversary.

David Petraeus also emphasised that the U.S. economy is currently demonstrating high stability, productivity, and innovation, and that the U.S. remains the primary magnet for foreign investment. This creates a strong resource base for long-term leadership in the security domain.

In conclusion, he noted that allies must not only support Ukraine, but also learn from it, as the Ukrainian experience is now shaping a new model of modern warfare. "I do not believe that we, as allies, are incapable of learning these lessons. Ukraine is already showing what the future of war looks like," the General pointed out.

Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007 to strengthen Ukraine's authority in the world. The foundation organises the Kyiv Security Forum every year. This leading international discussion platform focuses on issues of war and peace. The foundation also organises the Youth Kyiv Security Forum to develop a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.