NATO commander urges stable US troop presence in Europe
General Christopher Cavoli, commander of NATO forces in Europe, recommends maintaining the current level of US troops in Europe. His appeal received support in the House of Representatives, where there was a discussion about plans to reduce forces.
What do you need to know?
- General Christopher Cavoli recommends maintaining the current level of US troops in Europe, emphasizing that Russia remains a chronic threat.
- Katherine Thompson from the Pentagon states that a global review of US force deployment is ongoing, but decisions have yet to be made.
- Mike Rogers and Adam Smith from the Armed Services Committee support retaining the current number of troops to prevent further Russian aggression.
Why won't the US reduce the number of troops in Europe?
General Christopher Cavoli, commander of NATO forces in Europe, emphasized the need to maintain the current level of US troops in Europe during an appearance in the House of Representatives. Cavoli noted that Russia remains a "chronic" threat to the continent, one which could intensify.
"It's my advice to maintain that force posture as it is now. We have reviewed periodically since in 2022 we originally surged forces forward. We have periodically reviewed the force structure at both the military level and the policy level. And I have consistently recommended throughout that period to maintain the forces we surged forward, and I would continue to do so," said Cavoli during a hearing before the Armed Services Committee regarding the deployment of US forces in Europe.
His stance was supported by the Republican chairman of the Armed Services Committee, Mike Rogers, who warned against a premature withdrawal that could encourage further Russian aggression.
What are the Pentagon's plans?
Katherine Thompson, acting assistant secretary of defence for international security affairs, stated that the Pentagon is conducting a global review of US force deployment. Although decisions have yet to be made, Thompson noted that "sizing our force and our resources appropriately to that" is being considered. She also pointed out that Europe needs to take greater responsibility for its own security.
What are the reactions in the House of Representatives?
During discussions in the House of Representatives, both Mike Rogers and his Democratic deputy, Adam Smith, expressed support for maintaining the current level of US troops in Europe. Both emphasized that allies are increasing defence spending, but rearming Europe takes time. Rogers warned that a premature withdrawal could lead to further aggression from Russia.
What is the situation on the Ukrainian front?
General Cavoli assessed that the situation on the Ukrainian front has improved. Russian attacks have weakened, and Ukraine is not facing a front collapse. Nevertheless, Thompson claimed that an "initial ceasefire" in Ukraine is holding, though she refused to elaborate on this issue during the public committee session.
