American general claims reduction in US troop numbers in Europe will not create additional burden

Fewer American troops in Europe will not strain the continent’s defenses, Politico writes, citing NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe Gen. Alexus Grynkewich.

“I am confident in the capabilities of Europe and Canada. We’re ready today to meet any crisis or contingency,” the U.S. general said.

Grynkewich’s comments come amid concerns around an anticipated pullback ofAmerican troops from Europe resulting from President Donald Trump’s upcoming defense strategy. The so-called posture review is widely expected to involve a redeployment of U.S. forces from Europe to the Indo-Pacific.

That shift has already begun, with the U.S. pulling 800 troops out of Romania last month — a decision Bucharest called on Washington to overturn.

The worry about a reduction in the 85,000 U.S. troops in Europe also reflects a broader debate around Washington’s commitment to the alliance under Trump.