The US and Its Friends

May 11, 2026, 16:18
AsiaPolitics

Introduction

The United States is changing how it works with other countries. It is sending fewer soldiers to Europe and has problems with its old friends.

Main Body

The US government took soldiers out of Germany. They also stopped sending some missiles. The US leaders are angry with Germany. Now, the US might take soldiers out of Italy and Spain too. Spain wants a new army for Europe. Spain says Europe must protect itself. They do not want to depend on the US for help. Some European countries are now spending more money on weapons. Other countries like Japan and South Korea are worried. They do not think the US will help them during a war. Now, China and Russia want to be more powerful because the US is not a steady partner.

Conclusion

European countries still want to work with the US, but they want to be strong on their own too.

Learning

⚡ The 'Want' Pattern

In this text, we see how to talk about desires and needs using want + to. This is a key bridge to A2 English.

The Formula: Person → want(s) → to → action

Examples from the text:

  • Spain wants to (have) a new army.
  • European countries want to work with the US.
  • They want to be strong.

💡 Quick Guide: Adding the 'S'

When talking about one person or one group (singular), add an -s to want:

  • One country →\rightarrow wants to...
  • Many countries →\rightarrow want to...

Common Mistake: ❌ They wants to be strong. (Wrong) ✅ They want to be strong. (Right)

Vocabulary Learning

soldiers
People who fight for a country in the army
Example:The soldiers marched into the city.
missiles
Explosive weapons that fly through the air to hit a target
Example:The country stopped sending some missiles.
leaders
People who guide or direct a group or country
Example:The US leaders are angry with Germany.
angry
Feeling upset or mad
Example:The leaders are angry about the decision.
army
A large group of soldiers organized for war
Example:Spain wants a new army for Europe.
protect
To keep safe from harm or danger
Example:Europe must protect itself from threats.
money
Currency used to buy goods or services
Example:They are spending more money on weapons.
weapons
Tools or devices used to fight or defend
Example:Countries are buying new weapons.
war
A serious conflict between groups or countries
Example:They will not help during a war.
powerful
Having great strength or influence
Example:China wants to be more powerful.
partner
A person or country that works together with another
Example:The US is not a steady partner.
strong
Having great physical or mental power
Example:They want to be strong on their own.