U.S. Sets Record Defense Budget, Extends Ukraine Aid Through 2027
U.S. lawmakers have unveiled the final version of a sweeping defense policy bill that significantly boosts national security spending and reaffirms bipartisan support for Ukraine.
The Gaze informs about it, referring to Fox News.
Released on Sunday, the legislation outlines $901 billion in defense expenditures for the next fiscal year – $8 billion more than the White House initially requested.
In particular, the package includes a renewed commitment to Ukraine, extending funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative at $400 million annually for both 2026 and 2027.
The bill also strengthens congressional oversight of U.S. support for Ukraine, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United States Olha Stefanishyna noted. It requires the U.S. Secretary of Defense to notify the Senate and House Armed Services and Intelligence Committees within 48 hours of any decision to suspend or restrict the sharing of intelligence used to support Ukraine’s military operations.
Such notifications must explain the reasons for the decision, outline its expected duration, and assess how it may affect Ukraine’s ability to conduct combat actions. The Secretary of Defense must additionally provide a detailed report on the contributions of U.S. allies and partners, including through the PURL initiative and the USAI program, and present a plan for the use of remaining USAI funds.
The legislation also addresses Russia’s abduction of more than 20,000 Ukrainian children, condemning these actions and incorporating the “Abducted Ukrainian Children Recovery Act.”
Beyond Ukraine, the bill reshapes Washington’s posture toward China. It introduces new investment restrictions, bans the Pentagon from using certain Chinese technologies in its supply chains, and expands diplomatic and intelligence efforts to track Beijing’s global reach.
A separate provision prohibits the Department of Defense from contracting with Chinese biotechnology firms involved in genetic sequencing and related activities.
Republican leadership aides say the House of Representatives is expected to vote on the measure in the coming days.
The legislation comes shortly after the United States released an updated national security strategy that identifies ending the war in Ukraine as a key priority.
The strategy underscores that European partners must assume greater responsibility for their own defense – a stance that has reportedly caused friction between Washington and some EU officials.
As The Gaze previously reported, a fresh round of discussions between Ukraine’s negotiating team and envoys representing U.S. President Donald Trump has wrapped up in Miami, Florida.
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