Congress Moves to Restrict Pentagon From Reducing U.S. Troops in Europe, South Korea

WASHINGTON — House and Senate negotiators have finalized a sweeping defense policy bill that would block the Pentagon from significantly cutting U.S. troop levels in Europe and South Korea without congressional approval, addressing allied concerns about possible American withdrawals.

The compromise version of the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, released Sunday evening, prohibits reducing U.S. forces stationed in Europe below 76,000 unless the Defense Department submits an assessment and certifies to Congress that the move would not undermine U.S. or NATO security interests.

In South Korea, the bill bars cuts below 28,500 troops unless the Pentagon assures lawmakers that deterrence against North Korea would remain effective, that allies were consulted, and that a detailed national security justification and regional impact assessment are provided.

The legislation also codifies into law the longstanding U.S. practice of appointing an American general as Supreme Allied Commander Europe, NATO’s top military position.

The restrictions come amid earlier reports that the Pentagon had studied possible force reductions in both regions and even considered relinquishing the SACEUR post. U.S. officials have recently signaled they are backing away from major near-term drawdowns.

The annual NDAA, which authorizes roughly $900 billion in defense spending, includes a 4.5% pay raise for troops, new restrictions on U.S. investment in certain Chinese technologies, and $400 million over two years for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.

Lawmakers are aiming to send the bill to the president’s desk before Christmas, with a House vote expected this week.

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