US Abruptly Halts Transfer of 4,000 Troops to Europe

The United States has unexpectedly halted the transfer of around 4,000 combat brigade troops to Europe, with some personnel and equipment already prepared for deployment, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The Pentagon's decision has raised concerns in military circles and comes amid rising tensions between Washington and some European allies.

The deployment was to have formed part of Operation Atlantic Resolve, launched by the United States following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, with troops set to operate mainly in Poland in support of cooperation with NATO armies. Shortly before the halt, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had also announced a plan to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany.

Poland said it was ready to receive additional US troops but rejected claims that the suspended brigade had been destined for its territory. The move is likely to renew questions about the future of the US military presence in Europe.

(mja)