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The US is reducing the number of combat brigades in Europe

The US is reducing the number of combat brigades in Europe

20 May 2026, 14:32

The US is reducing the number of combat brigades in Europe — The US military

The Pentagon has reduced the total number of US combat brigade groups stationed in Europe from four to three.

This was confirmed to X by the department’s spokesperson, Sean Parnell.

Consequently, the size of these groups in Europe will return to 2021 levels. Parnell described the decision as the result of a comprehensive, multi-level process regarding changes to the US military presence in Europe.

“As a result, the deployment of US forces to Poland – a model US ally – is being temporarily delayed,” added the Pentagon spokesperson.

Parnell noted that the Pentagon will determine the final deployment of these and other US forces in Europe based on a further analysis of US strategic and operational requirements, as well as the allies’ ability to contribute to Europe’s defence.

“This analysis aims to advance President Donald Trump’s ‘America First’ policy in Europe and other regions, in particular by encouraging and enabling NATO allies to assume primary responsibility for the defence of Europe using conventional weapons,” he added.

The Pentagon spokesperson also stated that US Secretary of Defence Pete Hagset had held talks with Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. According to him, the US State Department will maintain close contact with its Polish counterparts during the review to ensure a strong US military presence in Poland.

“Poland has demonstrated both the capability and the resolve to defend itself. Other NATO allies should follow its example,” Parnell emphasised.

As a reminder, it was previously reported that the US wants access to Ukrainian technology as part of a drone deal.

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