US Army European Command transferred from Germany to Belgium Reduced German troops

US Army European Command moved from Germany to Belgium Reduced German troops July 13 6:13

The Trump administration of the United States has announced a reorganization plan to reduce the size of troops stationed in Germany to two-thirds, after relocating the US military headquarters in Europe from Germany to Belgium. President Trump cites Germany's lack of adequate defense spending, but concerns over its diminishing position in Europe are a concern as Russia remains threatened.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Esper at a press conference on September 29 moved the headquarters of the U.S. military, which oversees European operations, from Germany to Belgium, and also moved the troops of the Army and Air Force stationed in Germany to Italy and Poland. Announced the reorganization plan.

Under the plan, the US troops stationed in Germany will be reduced from 36,000 to 24,000, and 5600 of the personnel will be relocated to a member state of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) other than Germany, It means to let people return home.

"It's a strategic realignment to address the new security environment," said Esper, but on the same day President Trump was informed by reporters about the reason for the realignment, saying, "Germany is paying enough for defense. No, it's a simple story," he said of his dissatisfaction with Germany.

President Trump has issued a policy to reduce the burden of stationing expenses by returning US soldiers abroad, but in the threat of Russia, not only the opposition party but also the ruling party The Republicans are also raising concerns.

NATO “US continues to be involved in NATO and European security”

In response to the US Trump administration's announcement of plans to reorganize American troops in Europe, NATO = North Atlantic Treaty Organization Secretary-General Stoltenberg issued a statement on the 29th. It is a clear indication that we will continue to be involved in security," he said, saying that Europe's security will not be unstable.

He stressed that sufficient consultation had been held in advance, saying, "The United States had a thorough discussion with all NATO member countries prior to the announcement."

However, the Trump administration continues to put pressure on NATO member countries to raise defense spending, and the relations with each country are jerky, the statement of Secretary-General Stoltenberg shakes the unity of NATO. It can be said that it reflects concern about this.