Trump vs. Biden: US Defense Strategies Diverge on Global Priorities

• The 2026 US National Defense Strategy under Trump contrasts sharply with the 2022 strategy under Biden, particularly on traditional security concerns.
• Western Hemisphere: Trump's 2026 strategy emphasizes defending US interests, guaranteeing access to key terrain like the Panama Canal, and taking decisive action against narco-terrorists, contrasting with Biden's focus on partnership and stability.
• Russia and European Security: The 2026 strategy views Russia as a manageable threat, prioritizing US homeland defense and deterring China, expecting NATO allies to take primary responsibility for Europe's conventional defense with limited US support.
• China and Indo-Pacific: Both strategies identify China as a significant challenge, but Trump's 2026 strategy aims for a favorable balance of military power to prevent Chinese dominance, seeking a "decent peace" rather than regime change.
• North Korea and Middle East: The 2026 strategy empowers South Korea to take primary responsibility for deterring North Korea and regional allies to defend against Iran, with limited US support, building on initiatives like the Abraham Accords.

Why It Matters: New US defense strategies under Trump prioritize homeland defense and shift more responsibility to allies.