The American Congress adopted its defense strategy for 2026 on Wednesday, reaffirming its support for US alliances in Europe, contrary to recent signals sent by President Donald Trump and his administration.
The NDAA, adopted annually by both chambers of Congress with a certain degree of consensus between Democrats and Republicans, outlines the areas on which the United States should, according to elected officials, focus its defense efforts for the following year.
The 2026 version, over 3,000 pages long, anticipates a total annual budget of over 900 billion dollars, an increase of 5 billion dollars compared to the previous year, writes Agerpres.
The bill passed the Senate with 77 votes in favor and 20 against.
“The surest way to ensure peace is to maintain it by force”, stated on Tuesday the leader of the Republican majority in the Senate, John Thune, reiterating the slogan “peace through power” adopted by Donald Trump from the beginning of his second term.
During a speech in the Senate, Thune highlighted the measures included in this year’s NDAA, especially the construction of several warships “to help reduce the gap” compared to China’s shipbuilding capabilities, as well as the establishment of the anti-missile defense system “Golden Dome”, promoted by Donald Trump, and a 3.8% wage increase for military personnel.
He also emphasized the reforms of the Pentagon’s public procurement processes, including “the elimination of dozens of cumbersome rules and laws”.
However, the Republican leader did not mention any increase in support for European allies.
Details, HERE