Draft Defense Bill Would Set U.S. Troop Floors: 76,000 in Europe, 28,500 in Korea

Overview

• The draft bars using FY2026 funds to reduce forces under U.S. European Command below 76,000 for more than 45 days.
• Any move beneath that level would require written reports from the defense secretary and the EUCOM commander affirming U.S. interests after consultations with NATO allies.
• The text prohibits returning U.S. base land or other real property in Europe to host nations, blocks relocating any U.S. property valued above $500,000, and forbids relinquishing the U.S. role as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe.
• Parallel provisions establish a 28,500-person minimum for U.S. forces stationed in the Republic of Korea.
• Lawmakers outline a waiver path via a special submission to congressional defense committees, and a vote on the draft is expected to begin this week.