Pentagon funding linked to Trump stance on Russia amid sanctions waiver

The Pentagon chief has advocated for Congress to approve President Trump's $1.5 trillion defense budget request, describing it as a critical investment for national security. Some members of Congress, including those not returning or who have lost elections, may feel less obligated to align closely with the president. Concurrently, President Trump has temporarily lifted several congressional sanctions on Russia, citing national security reasons. These developments occur amid ongoing tensions involving Ukraine and Russia.