Congress passed a bill preventing the president from withdrawing the United States from NATO without Senate approval or legislation.
The initiative was presented by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine and his Republican colleague Marco Rubio. It was part of the annual National Defense Authorization Act, which passed the House of Representatives on Thursday and is expected to be signed by President Joe Biden.
The provision, approved by a 65-28 vote, underscores Congress’ commitment to the NATO alliance, which was the target of criticism from former President Donald Trump during his term.
Under Biden, the importance of the alliance has increased, especially after Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
“NATO has demonstrated resilience in response to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s war in Ukraine and growing challenges around the world,” Kane said.
He said the bill “reaffirms America’s support for this critical alliance, which is the foundation of the country’s national security.”
“It also sends a powerful signal to authoritarian regimes around the world that the free world remains united,” he added.
Rubio said the measure serves as an important congressional oversight tool.
“We must do everything possible to protect our national interests and the security of our democratic allies,” he said.
Biden pays great attention to NATO. He has sent more troops and military resources to Europe as a show of force amid Putin’s war. Under him, the alliance was expanded to include Finland and work is underway to admit Sweden.
Trump, a leading candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, is sending mixed signals about the alliance ahead of the 2024 election. Supporters of the former president say his harsh words and criticism of the alliance encouraged allies to make good on their demands. commitments to increase defense spending to 2 percent of GDP, easing the burden on the United States.
At the same time, Trump’s critics say the former president’s rhetoric weakens the unity and strength of the alliance’s goals. They express fears that Trump will abandon America’s commitments to the mutual defense pact or withdraw the United States from the alliance entirely.
