Bild claimed that European members of NATO “feared” that the recent high-level US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, could lead to such an outcome.
What it matters:
Western security services and politicians are concerned about a potential withdrawal of US troops from NATO member states in Central and Eastern Europe. This comes amid high-level talks between the US and Russia, where Russia is reportedly pushing for a significant reduction in the US military presence on the continent.
The big picture:
The situation reflects ongoing tensions between Russia and NATO, particularly over NATO's expansion into former Soviet bloc countries. Russia has long seen this expansion as a threat to its national security.
Key points:
- European members of NATO fear that recent talks could lead to the withdrawal of US troops from countries that joined after 1990.
- In December 2021, Russia proposed reshaping Europe's security architecture to exclude Ukraine from NATO membership. The West rejected these proposals as an ultimatum.
- Countries potentially affected include Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland (if it joins), Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, Republic of North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Sweden.
Go deeper:
Kremlin Denial but Ongoing Concerns: Despite Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denying any request for troop withdrawals during recent talks in Riyadh24, concerns persist due to Moscow’s historical opposition to NATO’s eastern expansion3.
What's Next:
European leaders are closely watching developments following these high-level talks. French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer are set to visit Washington soon to discuss these issues with President Trump.
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