WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on reports that the President plans to reduce U.S. troops levels in Europe:
"It is extremely concerning that the President is intent on altering U.S. force posture in Europe based on his feelings about another leader’s statements— and not America’s national security interests. America benefits greatly from our presence in Germany, including through logistical and medical services that underpin our military operations in Europe and far beyond.
"Germany and our treaty allies across Europe are stepping up and making enormous investments in our shared security. We should be standing shoulder to shoulder with our allies, not undercutting one another’s security interests over petty grievances. The President’s actions are causing irreparable damage to America’s standing in the world— and this will have long term consequences for our security and economy for years to come.
"I was proud to pass bipartisan legislation limiting the President from moving U.S. troops out of Europe in last year’s NDAA. Congress expects immediate answers from the Administration on how it can justify this foolhardy move."
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