NATO official says no current risk to eastern flank deterrence

A senior NATO military official has said there are currently no risks to deterrence on the alliance’s eastern flank, despite media reports suggesting possible changes to U.S. troop deployments in Europe.

The head of NATO’s International Military Staff, Remigijus Baltrėnas, made the remarks in an interview with LRT Radio, responding to reports in U.S. media about a potential suspension of the rotation of more than 4,000 U.S. troops in Poland and discussions at the Pentagon on a partial withdrawal of forces from Germany.

“I do not have the information to comment on the latest reports, but I can say that there are currently no risks to deterrence and defence on the eastern flank,” Baltrenas said.

He added that while the United States has recently been adjusting its military presence in Europe, NATO members have been responding by increasing defence spending and arms procurement. According to him, shifts in the balance of military posture are taking place but remain under alliance control.

“There are some challenges, but at the moment there are no risks to deterrence and defence on the eastern flank,” he reiterated.

Baltrenas said NATO forces remain deployed in line with existing defence plans and that U.S. decisions have not yet affected their implementation.

He also commented on the war in Ukraine, saying long-range strike capabilities are becoming increasingly significant. He noted that neither side currently holds the strategic initiative, although Ukraine has strengthened its capabilities while Russia faces growing economic and social pressure.

Baltrenas stressed that continued Western support for Ukraine is necessary to ensure Kyiv is in a stronger position in any future negotiations.

By Sabina Mammadli