Brussels: The United States’ review of its global force posture is anticipated to be completed by late summer or early fall, as stated by a senior U.S. official. Ambassador Matthew Whitaker, the U.S. permanent representative to NATO, emphasized efforts to prevent any security gaps in the event of troop level adjustments.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Whitaker’s comments come amid concerns regarding potential reductions in the 28,500-strong U.S. Forces Korea, with the Trump administration possibly focusing on countering China’s influence. During an online press briefing, Whitaker mentioned that while the Pentagon’s review is nearing completion, specifics on its rollout should be addressed by the Defense Department.

Whitaker assured that any movements of U.S. troops would be coordinated with European and Canadian allies to avoid security lapses. This was in response to inquiries about whether the U.S. intends to synchronize troop reductions in Europe with enhanced European defense capabilities.

South Korea is particularly attentive to the global posture review following reports suggesting the Pentagon might relocate approximately 4,500 troops from South Korea to other Indo-Pacific locations, such as Guam.

At the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague, Whitaker highlighted NATO’s commitment to each ally spending at least 5 percent of their GDP on defense, signaling unity against threats like Russian aggression and challenges in cyber and space domains. He described this commitment as crucial for maintaining NATO’s future readiness.

Whitaker also noted the significance of cooperation with NATO’s Indo-Pacific partners, including South Korea, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, emphasizing defense industrial collaboration and resilient supply chains as key focus areas. Although the leaders of South Korea, Australia, and Japan will not attend the summit, South Korea’s National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac will represent the nation.