In a move that underscores shifting global defence priorities, the United States has informed Romania and fellow NATO allies of plans to cut its troop rotations on Europe's eastern flank. Romania's defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday that the brigade once rotating through Mihail Kogalniceanu air base will cease its Europe-wide deployments.
Washington's announcement aligns with President Trump's broader strategy to refocus on homeland security and the Indo-Pacific, urging European partners to take on more responsibility for their own defence. Despite the drawdown, Romania will still host roughly 1,000 US troops, maintaining a significant American presence.
The Romanian ministry noted that NATO's consolidated presence on the eastern flank enables the United States to adjust its military posture. Allies were briefed in advance, and NATO described the change as a routine adjustment rather than a retreat.
A NATO official emphasized that even after these adjustments, US force levels in Europe remain higher than they were before 2022, reinforcing Washington's enduring commitment to collective security. Meanwhile, President Trump has hinted that US troop numbers could even rise in Poland, keeping regional dynamics in flux.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
