Russia's forceful actions in Ukraine have prompted Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel to announce that the U.S. Army will "maintain an enhanced military presence" in Poland until at least the end of 2014.
The New York Times reports the "enhanced military presence" Hagel spoke of will kick off with a company of about 150 soldiers carrying out small ground-force exercises in Poland and Estonia:
The moves are part of a broader effort by NATO to strengthen the alliance’s air, sea and land presence in Eastern Europe in response to Russia’s new assertiveness in the region.
Although no specific Army unit has been named to take part in the military exercises, Stars and Stripes reports deployment elements from the Texas-based 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division are under consideration.
