US Congress Approves Record Defense Spending: Significant Aid for Israel and Ukraine
The US House of Representatives has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2026, a record-breaking defense spending bill which includes substantial aid for Israel and Ukraine, along with significant policy decisions. The bill, which authorizes $901 billion in War Department spending, faces a smooth passage through the Senate and is expected to land on President Trump's desk without hiccups.
Key Provisions of the NDAA
The NDAA is an annual legislation outlining discretionary spending for the Pentagon. This year's bill is particularly noteworthy due to the sizeable US taxpayer funding for Israel and Ukraine.
The legislation commits approximately $200 million in funding for Israel's air defense systems, including the Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow systems. An additional $80 million will go towards the US-Israel Anti-Tunnel Cooperation Program, and $70 million will be allocated to assist Israel in countering drone attacks and other emerging aerial threats. Furthermore, a new emerging-technology cooperative program involving the US, Israel, and G7 allies such as Canada, the UK, Australia, and Japan is being established at a cost of $35 million.
For Ukraine, the spending package upholds many of President Trump's national security policies but limits his ability to reduce American troops in Europe and withhold support to Ukraine. The NDAA stipulates $400 million per year in military aid to Ukraine through 2027, despite objections by some lawmakers and a recent corruption scandal in Ukraine's energy sector.
Policy Decisions and Reactions
The NDAA also repeals the Authorization for the Use of Military Force of 1991 and 2002, which greenlit US invasions of Iraq. In the wake of criticism from hardline conservatives over additional funding for Ukraine, the legislation was narrowly passed in the House with a vote of 312 to 112.
Furthermore, the bill mandates that the U.S. cannot reduce its forces in Europe below 76,000 or in South Korea below 28,500 without submitting an assessment to Congress. These provisions aim to assuage allied governments' concerns about potential troop reductions in these regions.
Despite the significant spending and policy decisions, the bill faced notable opposition from lawmakers concerned about the Trump administration's management of the military. However, the legislation, which has bipartisan approval, codifies President Trump's agenda while insisting on more consultation with Congress.
Conclusion
The National Defense Authorization Act for 2026, now approved by the House of Representatives, is set to make its way through the Senate. This defense bill, with its record military spending and significant aid provisions for Israel and Ukraine, marks a significant moment in US defense policy and international relations.