NATO Chief Defends Planned US Troop Withdrawal

NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe Alexus Grynkewich said the planned withdrawal of one US armored brigade, involving around 5,000 troops, will not weaken the alliance’s defense posture.

Speaking after a meeting with NATO chiefs of staff in Brussels, Grynkewich said European allies and Canada are gradually taking on greater responsibility for the continent’s conventional defense.

He added that the United States aims to focus more on providing specialized military capabilities that European allies cannot yet fully supply on their own.

According to Grynkewich, changes to the US military presence in Europe will take place gradually over several years. He stressed that the move does not signal reduced US support for NATO, but rather an adaptation of forces to changing strategic conditions.

(reuters, mja)