Senator Roger Wicker, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Representative Mike Rogers, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, released a statement on May 2 expressing concern over the Pentagon's plan to withdraw about 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany and cancel a Long-Range Fires Battalion deployment.
The statement highlights concerns that reducing America's military presence in Europe could weaken deterrence efforts and send an unintended message to Russia. Wicker and Rogers said, "We are very concerned by the decision to withdraw a U.S. brigade from Germany." They added that Germany has increased defense spending and provided strong support for U.S. forces as part of Operation Epic Fury.
Wicker and Rogers said allies are moving toward spending more on defense but need time to develop necessary military capabilities. "Prematurely reducing America’s forward presence in Europe before those capabilities are fully realized risks undermining deterrence and sending the wrong signal to Vladimir Putin," they said.
They suggested relocating these troops further east within Europe rather than withdrawing them entirely: "Rather than withdrawing forces from the continent altogether, it is in America's interest to maintain a strong deterrent in Europe by moving these 5,000 U.S. forces to the east." The chairmen also called for close consultation with Congress regarding any significant changes: "Any significant change to the U.S. force posture in Europe warrants a deliberate review process and close coordination with Congress and our allies. We expect the Department to engage with its oversight committees in the days and weeks ahead on this decision and its implications for U.S. deterrence and transatlantic security.”
According to the official website, notable members of the House Armed Services Committee include Representatives Joe Wilson, Michael R. Turner, and Robert J. Wittman; it oversees programs related to national defense under jurisdiction defined by Rule X of House Rules; influences legislation such as community project funding through processes like the National Defense Authorization Act; operates as part of congressional oversight for military affairs; and Representative Mike Rogers served as chair during both the 118th-119th Congress.
