Global Nations Increase Demand for US Defense Pacts Amid Rising Violence, Encounter Domestic Resistance

Debate over US's role intensifies as countries seek protection from geopolitical threats and domestic opposition questions the $105 billion military aid request.

Countries such as Ukraine, Saudi Arabia Bahrain, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines are strengthening military ties and seeking security pacts with the United States amid rising geopolitical threats from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea.
Fears over Russia's aggression led Finland to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in April, with Sweden also nearing membership, while President Biden's administration also supports Israel through military aid and deployment of aircraft carrier groups in the eastern Mediterranean.
Despite increased global demand for U.S. protection, domestic opposition is growing due to the political fallout of U.S. wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, ideological shifts within the Republican Party towards isolationism and pro-Russia sentiments, and criticism of the ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.
A defense treaty with Saudi Arabia is being considered, which faces resistance due to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s human rights record, including the war in Yemen, as well as doubts about the strategic benefits for the U.S. as Saudi Arabia strengthens its ties with China.
The White House is requesting $105 billion in military aid, primarily for Ukraine and Israel, but faces opposition from some Republican lawmakers who are attempting to halt aid to Ukraine, and progressive Democrats who condemn the ongoing Israeli airstrikes.

Boston Globe