United States cuts Europe brigade allocation from five to three, reviews bases and seeks allied support for China deterrence

The United States has reduced brigade combat teams assigned or allocated to European Command from five to three, returning the allocation to its 2021 level, according to a September 22 statement by policy chief Elbridge Colby. A six-month review will examine remaining forces and basing arrangements, drawing on European Command analysis and consultations with Congress, NATO and allied governments. Washington wants European allies to lead conventional defense while concentrating U.S. capabilities on homeland protection and deterrence against China. It is also exploring permanent basing in Poland, but no agreement or further deployment changes were announced.