NATO chief says US troop withdrawals from Europe won't hurt defenses

May 20 2026 13:26:51

NATO chief says US troop withdrawals from Europe won't hurt defenses

BRUSSELS

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte speaks during a media conference at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Wednesday, May 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo)

NATO chief Mark Rutte said Wednesday that the U.S. decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Europe would not hit the alliance's defenses.

"When it comes to this announcement, the 4,000 to 5,000, it is rotational forces not having an impact on NATO's defense plans," Rutte told journalists.

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WORLD

NATO chief says US troop withdrawals from Europe won't hurt defenses

NATO chief Mark Rutte said Wednesday that the U.S. decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Europe would not hit the alliance's defenses.

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