Ukraine Crisis: 8,500 American Soldiers on Standby

Following the deployment of Russian forces to the Ukrainian border, the United States has placed 8,500 of its military personnel on standby. A Pentagon spokesperson stated that this measure demonstrates America’s serious commitment to NATO.

Following the standby alert of 8,500 American soldiers, John Kirby, Pentagon spokesperson, spoke about their possible deployment in relation to the Ukraine crisis.

He also warned that the final decision to actually deploy these forces has not yet been made.

These units were placed on standby by order of President Joe Biden and on the recommendation of Lloyd Austin, the US Secretary of Defense.

Kirby also added that these soldiers are prepared to respond to a range of contingencies, including supporting NATO’s rapid response forces if these forces are activated.

Kirby described this measure as a sign of America’s seriousness in its commitment to NATO.

Support from Other NATO Countries

Just hours before this announcement, several NATO member countries, including Denmark, Spain, France, and the Netherlands, announced that they would send auxiliary forces to defend and deter against a possible Russian attack on Eastern Europe.

Denmark is sending a frigate to the Baltic Sea and 4 fighter jets to Lithuania. Spain has also prepared ships to assist NATO naval forces and intends to send several fighter jets to Bulgaria.

According to NATO’s announcement, France has also announced its readiness to send units under NATO leadership to Romania.

Furthermore, the Netherlands will deploy two F-35 jets to Bulgaria from April and has prepared a ship and units to assist NATO’s rapid response forces.

Increased Concerns Following Deployment of 100,000 Russian Troops

The reason for the actions of Western countries is the increased concern about a Russian attack on Ukraine following the deployment of more than 100,000 Russian soldiers at the Ukrainian borders.

The United States and several European countries have warned Russia that in case of an attack on Ukraine, it will face serious consequences.

Russia has denied any intention to attack Ukraine.

Source: DW