The U.S. Congress's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) differs significantly from the federal government's National Security Strategy in its approach to Europe.
The Defense Bill stipulates—
* Prohibits stationing fewer than 76,000 troops in Europe (same as the National Defense Authorization Act below)
* Suspends sharing intelligence with Ukraine and requires 48 hours' notice to Congress beforehand.
* Reports on military assistance quarterly.
* Authorizes the Central Command to find suitable weapon systems for Ukraine.
* Provides aid to the Baltic states to counter Russia.
The U.S. Congress's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the government's National Security Strategy (NSS) indeed have significant differences in their policies toward Europe, reflecting the differences between the executive and legislative branches within the United States, as well as between strategic concepts and actual legislation.
The Defense Authorization Act functions like an "action list" and a "restraint," enforcing specific military commitments to Europe through legal provisions to prevent the government from unilaterally reducing its presence.
The National Security Strategy, on the other hand, acts as a "strategic guide," redefining America's security priorities and expectations for Europe, providing a theoretical framework for policy shifts.
The differences between these two documents are not just about policy focus; they also reflect the tensions between strategic vision and political reality, long-term goals and immediate constraints, within the U.S. political system.
However, under a strong Trump administration, where both the Senate and House of Representatives were dominated by Republicans, the Congress's authorized Defense Bill essentially became a mere formality.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1850989960536076/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.