A new Europe cuts provision in Congress’ 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) would stop the Pentagon from significantly reducing U.S. troop levels in Europe and South Korea, signaling bipartisan concern over deterrence and allied stability. The legislation, finalized by House and Senate negotiators and released Sunday, maintains current force posture while tightening congressional oversight of any future drawdowns.
The bill prohibits the Pentagon from cutting troop levels in Europe below 76,000 unless it submits a full assessment and certifies the move would not harm U.S. or NATO security. Similar restrictions apply to South Korea, where reductions below 28,500 troops would require assurances that deterrence against North Korea remains intact. Lawmakers also codified into law the long-standing U.S. role as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR).
The move comes after reports the Pentagon had weighed force reductions or even giving up the SACEUR post — ideas that alarmed allies. U.S. officials have since signaled no major drawdowns are planned. Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson emphasized allied responsibility, saying, “We’ve been very clear in the need for Europeans to lead in the conventional defense of Europe. We are committed to working through NATO coordination mechanisms to strengthen the alliance and ensure its long-term viability as European allies increasing take on responsibility for conventional deterrence and defense in Europe.”
The NDAA includes $400 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and tightens rules on reclaiming U.S.-funded equipment intended for Kyiv. War Secretary Pete Hegseth praised key partners, stating, “Model allies that step up, like Israel, South Korea, Poland, increasingly Germany, the Baltics and others, will receive our special favor.”
The NDAA is expected to reach the president’s desk before Christmas.
