It’s President Obama’s boldest response to the crisis in Ukraine so far.
“President Obama calling on Congress to fund a billion dollar effort, boosting America’s military presence across Europe.” (Via Fox News)
“The United States will pre-position more equipment in Europe. We will be expanding our exercises and training with allies to increase the readiness of our forces.” (Via BBC)
Obama made the proposal in Poland on Tuesday — the first stop in a four day trip to Europe, culminating in the G7 Summit in Brussels. (Via Al Jazeera)
The plan, which The White House is calling a “European Reassurance Initiative,” is intended to put pressure on Russia while reassuring NATO allies in the region. (Via The White House)
Obama explained in a press conference.
“We have prepared economic costs on Russia that can escalate. ... Mr. Putin has a choice to make.” (via CNN)
According to The Washington Post, although the proposal was well received by Eastern European leaders it “fell short” of their desire for a more permanent U.S. presence in the region.
Russia, of course, annexed Crimea back in March and had built up troops along the Ukrainian border before reportedly pulling most of them back in late May. (Via Arirang, CCTV)
Before the billion-dollar proposal could go into effect, it would have to be approved by Congress. Obama is set to attend a summit marking the 70th Anniversary of D-Day with Vladimir Putin on Friday.
