News|MilitaryUS army says homeland, curbing China priorities; limited support for alliesA new Pentagon strategy document softens tone on traditional foes, China and Russia.
The United States military will focus on homeland defense and deterrence of China while providing limited support to allies in Europe and other regions, as outlined in the 2026 National Defense Strategy (NDS).
The United States military will focus on homeland defense and deterrence of China while providing limited support to allies in Europe and other regions, as outlined in the 2026 National Defense Strategy (NDS).
Key Updates in the 2026 National Defense Strategy
The strategy represents a shift in Pentagon policy, emphasizing increased responsibilities for allies with reduced support from the United States. It suggests maintaining respectful relations with China and identifies the threat from Russia as persistent but manageable, particularly for NATO's eastern members.
There is no mention of Taiwan, which is claimed by China as its territory. The document also omits references to climate change, previously identified as an emerging threat by the Biden administration.
The strategy represents a shift in Pentagon policy, emphasizing increased responsibilities for allies with reduced support from the United States.
The NDS highlights the importance of border security, linking it directly to national security. It emphasizes efforts to strengthen border defenses and deport illegal aliens. Additionally, the strategy prioritizes restoring American military influence in the Western Hemisphere, particularly in Latin America, to protect US interests and territory.
Recent actions in Latin America include military operations that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels. These operations have raised concerns regarding their legality under international law, with criticisms of potential extrajudicial actions.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.