The Pentagon is considering the possibility of withdrawing up to 10,000 U.S. troops from Romania and Poland, raising concerns in several countries. NBC reports this, citing sources in Europe and the U.S.
The deployed units are part of a 20,000-strong contingent that was sent in 2022 by the Biden administration to strengthen the defense of countries bordering Ukraine. The exact number of troops to be withdrawn is still under discussion, but it could be up to half of the forces initially deployed.
Six American and European officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, shared previously undisclosed details about the proposed plan. If the withdrawal takes place, it will intensify fears that the U.S. might weaken its commitment to its European allies.
The Trump administration had previously emphasized the need for European allies to take greater responsibility for their own defense, allowing the U.S. to focus its military resources on China.