USA reduzieren Truppen in Osteuropa: „Die Europäer können mehr“

Die USA haben damit begonnen, einen Teil ihrer Truppen aus Osteuropa abzuziehen. Das System, eine Kampfbrigade rotierend einzusetzen, soll mit dem ersatzlosen Abzug einer solchen Brigade beendet werden – weil die Europäer inzwischen mehr Fähigkeiten aufbrächten, erklärte das US-Kriegsministerium.

Der geplante Abzug war am (heutigen) Mittwoch durch eine Mitteilung des rumänischen Verteidigungsministeriums bekannt geworden:

Romania and the Allies were informed of the United States‘ decision to downsize American troops in Europe.
The Ministry of National Defence has been informed about the withdrawal of some of the American troops deployed on NATO’s Eastern Flank, as part of the process of reassessing the global posture of US military forces.
Among the elements of the brigade that are about to cease rotations in Europe are also mentioned the forces designated for Romania, stationed at Mihail Kogălniceanu.
The decision was expected, as Romania is in permanent contact with its American strategic partner.
The downsizing of the US forces is an effect of the new priorities of the presidential administration, announced in February. The decision also took into account the fact that NATO had strengthened its presence and activity on the Eastern Flank, which allows the United States to adjust its military posture in the region.
The American decision is to cease the rotation of a brigade in Europe that had elements in several NATO countries. Approximately one thousand American soldiers will remain deployed on our national territory, contribute to the deterrence of any threats and will represent a guarantee of the US commitment to regional security.

Die U.S.Army Europe and Africa bestätigte das Vorhaben als Teil der von der Regierung in Washington beabsichtigten Neuausrichtung. Die US-Streitkräfte betonten dabei ausdrücklich und mehrfach und ganz deutlich, dass es ja keine Abkehr der USA von Europa oder der gemeinsamen Verteidigung in der NATO sei – sondern im Gegenteil ein positives Zeichen gestiegener europäischer Fähigkeiten und Verantwortung:

As part of the Secretary of War’s deliberate process to ensure a balanced U.S. military force posture, the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division will re­deploy as scheduled to their Kentucky-based home unit without replacement.
This is not an American withdrawal from Europe or a signal of lessened commitment to NATO and Article 5. Rather this is a positive sign of increased European capability and responsibility. Our NATO allies are meeting President Trump’s call to take primary responsibility for the conventional defense of Europe. This force posture adjustment will not change the security environment in Europe.
The U.S. maintains a robust presence throughout the European Theater, and maintains the ability to array forces and capabilities to meet objectives in the Theater and support U.S. priorities, including President Trump’s commitment to defend NATO allies.

(wird ggf. ergänzt)

(Archivbild: A U.S. Army Soldier loads a German G36 rifle during a multinational weapons range at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, Romania, Sept. 11, 2025 – U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Justin Lacy)