US President Donald Trump’s abrupt decision to withdraw thousands of troops from Germany has refocused attention on the US military presence in Europe, which not only acts as a deterrent to Russia but also allows Washington to project US power across the globe. Here’s a look at the current American military deployment in Europe and the possible implications of Trump’s move.
@Jhex
It does not matter what you and I *think* - as long as Putin does not *know*, the possibility of the US pivoting is still in play. That is my point.
At no point have I made the argument that Russia can take on Ukraine and all of Europe - that is your argument, not mine.
I have made the argument that I think he could be insane enough to test European resolve and commitment by taking on one of the Baltic countries. I stand by that.
Here is the thing: Look to Italy and Spain. They are not in any way, shape or form looking for a fight with Russia, and if Putin can put a wedge in between them and the countries that are ready to defend the Baltic countries, the losses may be worth it. A divided Europe would make his life a lot easier, since that division could easily be extended to the support for Ukraine.
As for the military force of Ukraine, there is no country in Europe that has a stronger, better trained, more battle hardened military force than Ukraine right now. They *were* much weaker at the beginning of the war, but the Russians underestimated them even then, and made a major mess of their invasion. I see no reason to think that they would be equally stupid again.
If Russia decided to throw 100000 men with pitchforks against a Baltic country, they would probably take it, simply by being more men.
Correct, but if you agree this is not possible them we know Russia won’t be able to attack Europe in any significant fashion, no?
Yes, after years of the current fight against Russia… Ukraine was not in this battle-hardened shape when the conflict started which actually implies the opposite point you are trying to make. Right now, after the example Russia set with Ukraine, most European countries would be much better prepared than Ukraine was a few years ago (plus they will definitely have Ukraine ready to whisper any Russian weak spot they have uncovered)
Russia or the rest of Europe? If you are talking about Russia, this makes no sense as you’d seem to imply they have a much stronger military might available right now to really hurt a Baltic or European country, yet they are happy being beaten by Ukraine on a daily basis?
Again, and they are choosing NOT to do this against Ukraine because losing is a better option?!