US Congress criticizes White House plans to reduce troop levels in Europe
Illustrative photo: the House of Representatives reacted sharply to the US plans to reduce the contingent in Europe (Getty Images)
Members of the US House of Representatives from both parties are sharply criticizing plans for a possible reduction of US troops in Europe, according to Associated Press News.
According to Congressman Michael Rogers, the United States should not reduce the number of its troops in Europe and give up the command of NATO, as it has historically held this position (SACEUR, Supreme Allied Commander Europe).
“US leadership in NATO is essential to ensure armed American forces, including our nuclear weapons, always remain under US command,” he said.
Rep. Michael Turner, in turn, called it "the idiocy of the fact that there was any discussion" to consider abandoning the role of SACEUR.
The AP adds that Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Affairs Katherine Thompson has previously stated that the Pentagon is reviewing the total number of US troops in Europe, but no decision has been made. Today, when asked whether the US plans to abandon the SACEUR position, she replied: "My definitive answer is no."
"That was the first time Pentagon officials have flatly denied the US will give up that post," AP notes.
Rep. Adam Smith called on the United States to support Europe and Ukraine, and criticized President Donald Trump for empowering Russia's Vladimir Putin.
United States may withdraw troops from Europe
Recently, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the United States does not intend to leave NATO, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, in turn, claimed that the Pentagon does not plan to abruptly withdraw troops from Europe.
As noted by Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen, in the event of a reduction in the contingent, the United States should provide the European Union with a roadmap.
