WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Defense is considering a proposal to withdraw up to 10,000 troops from Eastern Europe. Citing six unnamed U.S. and European officials, NBC News reported. The sources said discussions about a possible reduction of the US military presence in the region are taking place at the highest levels of the Pentagon.
The proposal comes at a time when the Russian army continues its military aggression against Ukraine. According to some officials, the withdrawal could be seen as a signal of weakening Western resolve to counter Russian influence. "Such a move could reinforce Russian President Vladimir Putin's belief that the West is not united," one unnamed source said.
The debate on changes in the deployment of US forces in Europe is part of a broader review of US security strategy. According to NBC, the Pentagon is evaluating whether the current deployment is appropriate to current threats and priorities. Not only military, but also diplomatic and economic implications are being considered.
No official decision has yet been made and the proposal will be further consulted with NATO partners. According to analysts, a possible withdrawal could affect the security balance in the region and spark further debate within the alliance.
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