Summary
The U.S. Senate has passed a $901 billion defense bill for the 2026 fiscal year. The bill includes military spending plans and policies backed by President Donald Trump's administration. It features provisions that seek to ensure Congress keeps oversight over military actions and supports U.S. commitments abroad.
Key Facts
- The bill is called the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and passed the Senate with a 77-20 vote.
- It combines priorities from President Trump's administration with measures to maintain Congress' control over military activities.
- The bill requires keeping at least 76,000 U.S. soldiers in Europe unless reductions are deemed necessary with NATO consultations.
- It includes $800 million in support for Ukraine over the next two years.
- The NDAA allocates $1 billion for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative to strengthen defense ties with Taiwan.
- It provides $600 million in security assistance to Israel, including missile defense programs like the Iron Dome.
- The bill repeals authorizations for past U.S. military actions in Iraq and the Gulf War to reduce the risk of future actions without Congress' approval.
- Several provisions align with President Trump's America First strategy, with a focus on Asia-Pacific and easing restrictions on Syria.
