Pentagon reviews U.S. military presence in Europe

The Pentagon is conducting a six-month review of the deployment of approximately 80,000 U.S. troops currently stationed in Europe. This review aims to evaluate various options for force adjustments, including troop numbers, base access, airspace rights, and support systems such as intelligence, cyber, and space capabilities.

Following President Donald Trump’s calls for European allies to take greater responsibility for continental defense, the U.S. is exploring a model where Europe leads its own defense while the U.S. provides more limited support, primarily focusing on nuclear deterrence. Pentagon officials are expected to present at least four deployment options to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in early November, with the full review slated for completion in December.

European NATO allies have expressed concern regarding the potential reduction of the U.S. “security umbrella.” There are fears that Europe may struggle to quickly replace critical U.S. capabilities in areas such as satellite intelligence, strategic transport, air defense, logistics, and long-range strike capabilities.