U.S. Air Force General Alexus Gregory Grynkewich affirmed that fewer American troops in Europe will not weaken continental defense, saying Europe is ready to face any crisis.
General Grynkewich Declares Readiness
U.S. Air Force General Alexus Gregory Grynkewich, also commander of the U.S. European Command, said that a smaller number of American soldiers in Europe will not weaken the continent’s defensive capability. He emphasized Europe’s and Canada’s ability to handle any crisis, stating that they are now ready for any unforeseen situation.
Statement Issued Amid Trump‑Era Troop Reductions
Grynkewich’s remarks come as concerns grow over the possible withdrawal of U.S. forces from Europe under President Donald Trump’s defense strategy. Last month the United States pulled 800 troops from Romania, and fears that the 85,000‑strong American contingent might shrink further have sparked a wider debate about Washington’s engagement in the alliance.
Russia’s Potential Test of NATO
Grynkewich warned that Russia could soon test NATO’s collective defense. He also asserted that political tensions tied to peace talks do not affect NATO’s mission execution, and highlighted allies’ commitments to increase defense spending, noting that NATO will be more prepared tomorrow and even more so the day after to confront Russia. He cited Russian president Vladimir Putin’s readiness for war with Europe and stressed the seriousness of hybrid attacks.
U.S. Pullback from Eastern NATO Flank
Late October, Trump dismissed the reduction of U.S. troops stationed in Romania as “not too significant.” On 29 October, the United States announced withdrawing part of its forces from NATO’s eastern flank, while denying this meant a withdrawal from Europe. The troops will return to their parent unit in Kentucky, with portions also moving to Hungary, Bulgaria and Slovakia. Romania confirmed that it would receive a reduction of about 800 troops at the Mihail Kogalniceanu base near the Black Sea, leaving 900‑1,000 American soldiers deployed there. The Pentagon said the United States maintains a strong presence in Europe and can deploy additional forces quickly.