Trump's European base closure sparks security concerns
According to Greek media, under the influence of the leaders of Russia and Turkey, Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Donald Trump was alleged to have decided to withdraw American forces and close the base in Alexandroupoli, Greece. Gen. Bogusław Pacek explains what US forces' deployment changes mean for Europe's continued security.
The Greek newspaper "Dimokratia" reported that US President Donald Trump had ordered closing the American base in Alexandroupoli. The controversial decision, widely discussed abroad, is said to have been made at the joint request of Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The United States has not yet made any statement on the matter. The issue is severe because the base has been a key point for transferring American weapons to the Balkans and Eastern Europe, including for Ukraine fighting against Russia.
"It is too early to comment on this decision unequivocally," says Gen. Bogusław Pacek, who previously served as a NATO adviser on reforming Ukraine's military education system. Nevertheless, he emphasizes that every change of this type requires excellent consideration.
Gen. Pacek: Any changes are dangerous
"Today we are living in a challenging moment. We know that the United States intends to restructure the deployment of forces in various parts of the world. This is dangerous," assesses the retired military officer.
As the military expert explains, we are in a "situation of balance"—a balance in which US forces are also deployed on the territory of NATO countries, which should be maintained to ensure security.
"The reduction of American forces should be announced well in advance by the US administration so that Europe can send its troops in their place," he says. According to the general, the situation would look completely different if the US announced, for example, a year in advance, their intention to withdraw forces from a European country.
"Europe is not ready for this. It takes time," the expert says, emphasizing that "Europe is surprised by the new US policy."
"The transfer of forces from Europe to Africa and their preparation for full combat capability takes six months. This gives an idea of all the changes being implemented in different NATO countries," the general adds.
