The U.S. is preparing to send more troops to Europe in response to the recent buildup of Russian troops along its border with Ukraine.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced Wednesday that more troops will be sent to Germany as part of its renewed commitment to the NATO alliance.
The decision to send more troops is a reversal from the previous administration's plans. Austin said that "approximately 500 additional US personnel" will be sent to the Wiesbaden region of Germany "as early as fall."
"This planned increase in US personnel underscores our commitment to Germany, and to the entire NATO alliance," Austin said.
The U.S.'s plan to increase its military presence in Germany comes as NATO had expressed concerns over the buildup of Russian troops in Ukraine's eastern border.
Austin said the added troops are meant to "strengthen deterrence and defense" in Europe, while also augmenting its ability to prevent conflict in the region. The personnel that will be sent are mostly experts that will improve "cyber" and "electronic warfare" capabilities" to enhance the military's ability to respond to threats and defend allies, Austin said.
Austin declined to comment on whether the decision was a response or a message to Russia over its recent military buildup. Austin said the move is to support NATO "to the fullest extent."
U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken was more direct with the country's stance regarding the Russian military buildup. On Wednesday, Blinken said the country "stands firmly behind the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine."
"We're now seeing the largest concentration of Russian forces on Ukraine's border since 2014 and that is of deep concern not only to Ukraine but to the United States and indeed to many of our allies and partners," Blinken said.
Germany's Minister of Defense Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer applauded the U.S. for its decision. She described the decision to send more troops as "happy news."
"Our cooperation is all the more important, important in times where the security and defense architecture has come under pressure in many parts of the world," Kramp-Karrenbauer said.
