Trump signs controversial defence bill calling for sanctions against Russia, Turkey

US President Donald Trump on Friday signed into law a US$738-billion defence bill which includes controversial provisions calling for sanctions against Russia and Turkey, Xinhua news agency reported Saturday.

Trump approved the 2020 National Defense Authorisation Act (NDAA), which will increase the US defence spending by about $20 billion, or about 2.8 percent, at a signing ceremony held at the Joint Base Andrews near Washington.

The sprawling legislation has stirred up opposition overseas as it contains punitive provisions against Russia, Turkey and other countries.