Radio Cadena Agramonte emisiora de Camagüey
Moscow, Dec. 10 - In the final version of the National Defense Authorization Bill for the next fiscal year, the US Congress agreed to new restrictions to prevent the Department of War from reducing its troops deployed in Europe and South Korea, Fox News reported.
According to the regulation, U.S. forces in Europe cannot fall below 76,000 personnel without a prior assessment and certification to Congress proving that the reduction does not harm the security of the U.S. or NATO.
The measure also sets conditions to prevent Washington from ceding the position of Supreme Allied Commander in Europe. Traditionally held by a U.S. general, this position oversees all military operations of the alliance.
In the case of South Korea, the legislation sets a limit of 28,500 U.S. soldiers. Furthermore, it emphasizes that any potential reduction must be accompanied by justifications regarding its impact on deterrence against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, consultations with allies, and a detailed national security analysis.
These restrictions come in response to recent reports that the Pentagon had evaluated reducing troop deployments in Europe and Asia, and even relinquishing the position of Supreme Allied Commander in Europe. During a recent meeting with U.S. security officials and European leaders, Washington made clear that Europe will have to assume more responsibilities in NATO defense by 2027, according to three European officials present at the meeting who reported to Fox News.
The U.S. plans to maintain the position of Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, although it intends to offer European countries other high-level military positions in NATO. So far, there are no plans for significant troop cuts in Europe. (Text and photo: RT)
