The United States has informed NATO allies of plans to reduce its troop presence in Europe, particularly along the eastern border with Ukraine, prioritizing global security efforts in other regions. The decision, announced on October 29, impacts NATO’s eastern flank, with Romania’s defense ministry confirming the move.
Romania’s Defense Minister Ionuț Moșteanu emphasized that the adjustment does not weaken bilateral ties, stating, “Our strategic partnership is solid, predictable, and reliable.” He noted that U.S. troop numbers in Romania will remain higher than pre-2022 levels, with approximately 1,000 American soldiers stationed there, down from around 1,700 earlier this year.
A NATO official described the changes as routine, asserting that the U.S. military presence in Europe remains robust compared to previous years. The ministry highlighted that NATO’s strengthened eastern defenses allow for reallocation of resources without compromising collective security.
The shift occurs amid pressure on NATO members to increase defense spending. While some allies pledged to raise expenditures to 5% of GDP by 2035, others, like Italy, face challenges in meeting even the traditional 2% target. The United Kingdom has committed to allocating 3% of GDP to defense by 2034, reflecting evolving priorities within the alliance.
