U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a press briefing at the White House, on the one-year mark into his second term in office, in Washington, D.C., U.S., January 20, 2026. REUTERS/Jessica Koscielniak
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CNBC TV1824-01-2026, 12:42

US Shifts Defense Focus to China, Homeland; Allies Get 'More Limited' Support

  • The 2026 National Defense Strategy (NDS) prioritizes protecting the US homeland and deterring China.
  • Allies in Europe and elsewhere will receive 'more limited' support, taking primary responsibility for their own defense.
  • The new NDS marks a significant shift from past policies, with a softer tone on China and Russia compared to previous administrations.
  • It emphasizes 'respectful relations' with Beijing, omitting mention of Taiwan, and describes Russia as a 'persistent but manageable' threat.
  • The strategy also elevates Latin America, aiming to 'restore American military dominance' in the Western Hemisphere.

Why It Matters: The US is reorienting its defense strategy to prioritize homeland security and China, reducing support for allies.

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