
Despite warnings that U.S. actions not focused on diplomacy with Russia risk setting the stage for an "exceedingly dangerous quagmire," the Pentagon announced Monday that roughly 8,500 U.S. troops have been put on "heightened preparedness to deploy" to Eastern Europe amid rising tensions with Russia over Ukraine.
Speaking at a news briefing, Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the "steps to heighten the readiness of ... forces at home and abroad" were aligned with U.S. commitments to NATO.