President Donald Trump has considered cutting American forces in Europe by a third, according to sources familiar with the conversation. The move is seen as a way to send a message to NATO allies, who Trump feels have not supported the US in its military operations.
NATO Summit
Trump’s comments come as he prepares to attend a NATO summit in Turkey. The summit is expected to be tense, with Trump having previously criticized NATO allies for not contributing enough to the alliance’s defense efforts.
Trump has also threatened to withdraw from NATO, citing the alliance’s failure to support the US in its military operations. The move has been met with concern from European leaders, who fear that a US withdrawal could embolden Russia and undermine the alliance’s collective defense.
US-European Relations
The US and European allies have had strained relations in recent months, with Trump criticizing European leaders for not supporting the US in its military operations. The tension has been fueled by Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal and his subsequent launch of a military operation in the region.
European leaders have pushed back against Trump’s criticism, arguing that they were not consulted before the US launched its military operation. They have also pledged to support the US in its efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed due to tensions in the region.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
