Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, May 16: The Pentagon has reportedly cancelled plans to temporarily deploy more than 4,000 US-based troops to Poland, according to multiple American media reports citing US officials.
The decision involves the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, whose deployment had already begun in parts, with some personnel sent overseas and military equipment already in transit.
Speaking during a congressional hearing on Friday, Christopher LaNeve, acting chief of staff of the US Army, confirmed that the head of the US European Command had received instructions regarding the troop reduction.
LaNeve said consultations had taken place over which unit should have its deployment cancelled, adding that it was ultimately decided that the brigade would not proceed with its planned rotation in Europe.
According to the general, the directive came directly from the office of US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. However, the Pentagon has not yet issued any formal public announcement regarding the cancellation.
Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said Congress had not been informed in advance about the decision.
The latest development comes shortly after the Pentagon announced plans to withdraw around 5,000 American troops from Germany over the next six to 12 months as part of a broader reassessment of US military deployments in Europe.
Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump also indicated that troop deployments in Italy could be reviewed. In an interview with Italian media, Trump reportedly said he was “still considering” relocating American troops from bases in Italy, while criticising some European allies for not offering sufficient support during the recent US-Israeli conflict involving Iran.
Responding to those remarks, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said he could not understand the reasoning behind the proposed troop reductions. He highlighted Italy’s participation in international maritime security efforts, including preparations for a mission in the Strait of Hormuz focused on mine-clearing operations and safeguarding shipping routes.
Italian news agency ANSA had earlier reported that Trump was also considering reducing US military presence in both Spain and Italy.
According to data from the US Department of Defense, nearly 12,700 active-duty American troops were permanently stationed in Italy by the end of 2025, making it the second-largest US military deployment in Europe after Germany.
The reported cancellation of the Poland deployment signals growing uncertainty surrounding future American military commitments across Europe as Washington reassesses its global defence priorities and alliance arrangements.