The U.S. Congress Has Limited The Withdrawal Of U.S. Troops From Europe And South Korea
- 10.12.2025, 8:12
The number of American troops in Europe cannot drop below 76,000.
The US has unveiled an updated version of the defense budget for 2026, which strengthens restrictions on reducing the military contingent in Europe and South Korea. The document is aimed at preserving stability in key regions and strengthening Washington's position among allies.
It was reported by FOX News.
Congress fixes troop withdrawal restrictions
The defense budget bill agreed to by House and Senate committees stipulates that U.S. troop levels in Europe cannot drop below 76,000 without a formal assessment of the impact and congressional confirmation of the safety of such a move for the U.S. and NATO.
Analogous mechanism is in place for South Korea: the number of military personnel cannot fall below 28,500, and any reduction requires proof that the DPRK's level of deterrence will not be affected and that allies have been properly informed.
Separately, the bill includes a requirement to retain the position of Supreme Allied Commander of NATO's Combined Forces in Europe (SACEUR).
This role has traditionally been reserved for the U.S. representative and will now be formalized at the legislative level.
Reaction by Washington and allies
In recent months, there have been reports of a possible overhaul of the structure of the U.S. presence abroad, including discussions of troop reductions and a changing U.S. role in NATO.
Although the Pentagon has officially rejected such scenarios, Congress has decided to further legally enshrine the restrictions.
In meetings with European partners, the U.S. side has stressed that in the coming years, Europe should more actively assume the functions of collective defense.
U.S. officials have said they do not plan significant troop reductions in Europe and are prepared to maintain strategic command positions within the NATO structure.
Ukraine direction and additional provisions
The bill includes $400 million for a two-year Ukraine security assistance program.
In addition, the document specifies the conditions under which the Pentagon can return equipment intended for Ukraine but not yet delivered.
Returns are allowed only if urgently needed for U.S. operations or if it cannot be used without risking life.