The US Senate has approved a large defense budget. It is worth $901 billion for 2026. This bill was already passed by the House of Representatives. It shows how the US will spend money on its military. It also shows the US supports its international friends. These friendships are important now because the world has many challenges. NATO allies also promised to spend more on defense. They will spend 5% of their country's money on defense. NATO's leader, Mark Rutte, said Donald Trump influenced this decision.
This new budget will help the US military stay in important places. The bill says US soldiers will stay in Europe and South Korea. This will make allies feel safe. It will also stop enemies from attacking. The US will not reduce its military help quickly. This is especially true for Europe. The Pentagon must keep at least 76,000 soldiers in Europe. It must also keep 28,500 soldiers in South Korea.
A lot of this money will help Ukraine. Ukraine is fighting against Russia. The bill gives $800 million over two years to help Ukraine. This money will help Ukraine buy weapons. It will also help build more weapons in the US. Many people in the US agree that Ukraine needs help. Russia still has Ukrainian land. Russia also wants more land. Russia started the big war in Ukraine in 2022. This war is a main reason for the US defense plans.
The defense bill also looks at Asia and the Middle East. The US will give $1 billion to help Taiwan. This shows the US will help Taiwan defend itself. China is becoming more powerful in that region. The bill also gives $600 million to Israel. This supports a long friendship. It also helps with missile defense. These plans show the US wants to work with many countries.
The US Senate and House agree on this defense budget. However, some people are discussing the reasons for more spending. Supporters say it is needed to keep peace. They say it will stop countries like Russia. Some lawmakers worry about too much military spending. They want Congress to watch the money carefully. Russia says it is not a threat to Europe. President Putin says Russia wants to take back "historical lands." The US Congress has made strong decisions in a changing world.