Rutte: US withdraws troops, but Romania's defences remain strong

NATO is downplaying the US decision to withdraw 700 troops from Romania at a time when Europe is facing a surge in hybrid attacks and airspace intrusions by Russian drones, Politico reports.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte assured that this was a routine rotation and not a weakening of defence: "We can collectively reinforce our capabilities whenever necessary."

Romanian President Nicușor Dan stressed that the US presence in the region is stronger than in 2020. NATO is responding to incidents by strengthening air defence through the new Eastern Sentry programme and expanded military exercises in Romania, where the number of troops is increasing from 1,500 to over five thousand.

Even after the withdrawal, approximately 1,000 US troops will remain in the country. Rutte stressed that the alliance is ready to defend Romania if it is threatened.

(mja)