Future United States Role in European Security
Abstract
During the period 1989-1991, there were tremendous changes in the European security environment. The United States and its European allies are now faced with questions concerning appropriate security structures to meet the needs of post-Cold War, post-soviet Europe. The purpose of this study is to contribute to the debate about appropriate roles, missions and capabilities for U.S. military forces in Europe. The study considers security threats risks and uncertainties pertaining to Europe; examines the response of the Bush administration to new security realities; and assesses the adaptation of the Atlantic Alliance to the absence of a direct threat. Both the United States and its NATO allies envison a continued significant U.S. military presence in Europe. The study also focuses on challenges from both sides of the Atlantic to the planned U.S. military role in Europe. Western Europeans have demonstrated increasing independence and assertiveness as they move toward the establishment of a European union and a common foreign and security policy. Americans have become increasingly focused inward on severe domestic problems. The appropriatness and implications of three different potential U.S. military roles in Europe are examined. The study concludes that a continued significant U.S. military presence in Europe is a sound hedging strategy for the United States during a period of tremendous change. The study also suggests compensating measures to enhance the effectiveness of a more modest U.S. military force, should a larger U.S. military presence in Europe not be acceptable.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 26, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA256021
Entities
People
- James A. Moreno
Organizations
- United States Army War College