Pentagon reviews potential reduction of U.S. forces in Europe as AI experts urge swift regulation
U.S. officials are evaluating a plan that could cut up to half of the American military presence in Europe, while AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton warned Congress has limited time to enact safeguards.
The U.S. Department of Defense is conducting a six-month review of its European footprint and may propose removing between 25,000 and 40,000 troops, roughly one-third to one-half of the current 80,000-strong force. The analysis, expected from Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, will be presented to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and could include relocating assets to NATO’s eastern flank. Officials said the move would be the most significant drawdown since the post-Cold War era and would affect bases in Germany, Italy and Spain.
Separately, leading AI researcher Geoffrey Hinton told lawmakers that Congress likely has about a year to pass effective AI safeguards before risks become unmanageable. Hinton’s remarks were delivered during a private briefing with members of Congress, underscoring growing pressure from state officials, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, to accelerate regulatory action.
Both developments highlight strategic reassessments in U.S. defense and technology policy amid heightened geopolitical tensions and rapid advances in artificial intelligence.