US places 8,500 troops on ‘High Alert’ amid Ukraine tensions

(News1st); Around 8,500 US troops have been put on heightened alert for a possible deployment to Eastern Europe as Russian troops mass on Ukraine's border, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Monday(24).

The Biden administration was in the final stages of identifying specific military units it wants to send to Eastern Europe, according to multiple US and defense officials.

The US troops would stand ready in case NATO activates the NATO Response Force (NRF) or in the event of a 'deteriorating security environment.

If such a situation arises the United States would be in a position to rapidly deploy additional brigade combat teams, logistics, medical, aviation, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, transportation and additional capabilities into Europe," Kirby stated.

The announcement comes amid US warnings that a Russian invasion of Ukraine is probable.

Furthermore, Biden held an 80-minute secure video call with European leaders on Monday afternoon, which the White House reported as part of the administration's consultation and coordination with European allies in response to Russia's military buildup.