Pentagon withholds troop deployment plans

The Pentagon has chosen not to release a key report on the global deployment of US forces, breaking with decades of established practice. The document, known as the Global Posture Review, has served Congress and NATO allies as a basis for defence planning and budgets, according to Politico.

The administration says it is providing sufficient information through other strategic materials and informal consultations, but several officials say that is not enough.

Lawmakers and European allies alike warn that the absence of a clear document is increasing uncertainty and complicating decision-making. Critics point to a lack of transparency and even an absence of a coherent strategy.

Tensions are also rising within NATO, where several countries are calling for greater predictability, particularly in the context of possible US troop movements in Europe.

The Pentagon says it is acting in line with a national defence strategy. Yet the move appears to reinforce concerns that the US is increasingly focusing on its own priorities – particularly China – at the expense of traditional partnerships.

(pir)