The Senate has officially passed a $901 billion defense bill that authorizes funding for various military programs and puts pressure on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to release video evidence of military strikes on alleged drug boats in international waters near Venezuela. This significant piece of legislation, known as the National Defense Authorization Act, incorporates a 3.8% pay increase for troop members and has received bipartisan support as it advanced through Congress.
The bill, which spans over 3,000 pages, highlights the ongoing tensions between Congress and the Pentagon amidst the Trump administration’s shift in focus from European security to Central and South America. It mandates transparency regarding boat strikes in the Caribbean, preserves current troop levels in Europe, and allocates military aid to Ukraine, all while aligning with many of President Trump’s national security policies.
Senator Roger Wicker, chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, expressed optimism about the comprehensive reforms being enacted, stating, “We’re about to pass… the most sweeping upgrades to DOD’s business practices in 60 years.” However, the bill has encountered resistance, particularly from leaders on the Senate Commerce Committee, due to a controversial provision that allows military aircraft to operate without broadcasting precise locations, a move linked to a tragic midair collision in January that claimed 67 lives.
In a significant effort to ensure oversight, Congress has stipulated that 25% of Hegseth’s travel budget will be withheld until unedited footage of the strikes is provided to the House and Senate Committees on Armed Services. The pressure on Hegseth reflects a bipartisan concern, as lawmakers seek greater clarity regarding the military campaign in international waters, particularly following a strike that resulted in civilian casualties.
Additionally, the bill indicates a shift in congressional authority over military affairs, insisting that the Pentagon consult congress before making critical alterations to troop deployments, particularly in Europe and South Korea. This legislation also repurposes $400 million over the next two years to support weapon production for Ukraine.
In a pivotal move, the bill eliminates several diversity and inclusion initiatives within the military, a priority for the Trump administration. This includes the repeal of offices and programs related to diversity and climate change, projected to save the Pentagon approximately $40 million.
Furthermore, the legislation seeks to finalize the U.S. involvement in Iraq by repealing authorizations tied to the 2003 invasion, acknowledging Iraq’s status as a strategic partner. It also removes long-standing sanctions on Syria, aligning with the administration’s aim to support economic reconstruction in the country.
Overall, this bipartisan defense bill not only addresses contemporary military needs but also signifies a notable tightening of congressional control over military operations, indicating a potential shift toward restoring legislative authority in matters of war and peace.