Washington explains reduction of US troops in Europe
Photo: The US emphasized that the reduction of military forces will not affect security in the EU (Getty Images)
The US Army Europe and Africa has confirmed plans to redeploy part of its military contingent from Europe, according to a statement from the command.
Washington announced the redeployment of the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division to a base in Kentucky. The redeployment will take place "as part of the Secretary of War's deliberate process".
"This is not an American withdrawal from Europe or a signal of lessened commitment to NATO and Article 5. Rather, this is a positive sign of increased European capability and responsibility," the statement reads.
The command emphasized that the change in the deployment of US forces "will not change the security environment in Europe."
The United States has begun a large-scale reduction of its military presence in Eastern Europe. About 800 American troops are being withdrawn from Romania, with further reductions planned in Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Hungary.
On Monday, October 27, the decision to withdraw some US troops from Romania was confirmed. American units are stationed at the Mihail Kogălniceanu, Deveselu, and Câmpia Turzii bases, but it is currently unclear which of these will be affected by the reductions.
NATO has stated that it maintains close communication with the US government regarding troop deployments in European countries after receiving information about plans to reduce forces on Europe's eastern flank.
Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump announced plans to cut the American military contingent in Europe by 20%.
