NATO’s top military commander has said he does not expect additional American troop withdrawals from Europe beyond the 5,000 reductions already announced by President Donald Trump earlier this month.
Speaking at NATO headquarters in Brussels, US Lieutenant General Alex Grynkewich said current plans involve only the previously announced troop drawdown.
“It will be 5,000 troops coming out of Europe. It’s all that I’m expecting in the near term,” Grynkewich told reporters during meetings involving military chiefs from NATO’s 32 member states.
Multiple international media reports, including AP, said Trump’s earlier announcement surprised several European allies, especially as tensions continue over the Iran war, NATO spending disputes and growing security concerns near Russia’s borders.
According to Pentagon plans, the United States has canceled deployments to Poland and Germany rather than withdrawing forces already permanently stationed in Europe. Reports indicate around 4,000 troops from the Army’s 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team will no longer deploy to Poland, while additional missile and rocket deployment plans for Germany have also been halted.
Some US soldiers were reportedly informed only shortly before departure that their European deployment had been canceled. Military officials also confirmed that thousands of pieces of equipment had already arrived in Europe before the sudden changes were announced.
The developments have fueled concerns among NATO allies about America’s long-term military commitment to Europe at a time of heightened tensions with Russia and instability in the Middle East.
Trump has repeatedly criticized European NATO members over defense spending and recently clashed with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over comments linked to the Iran conflict and US foreign policy strategy.
Despite the uncertainty, Grynkewich said NATO military leaders are continuing discussions on strengthening the alliance’s eastern flank near Russia, particularly with Poland and the Baltic states.