The NATO alliance will continue to have an American as its top commander in Europe. Despite earlier considerations by the Trump administration to relinquish this key position, the Pentagon announced on Thursday that Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich will succeed General Chris Cavoli as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR).
The SACEUR role, responsible for leading NATO's defense in Europe, has always been held by an American general since the alliance's inception. The Trump administration had hinted at shifting focus towards countering China, but the strategic importance of maintaining US leadership in NATO prevailed.
The SACEUR also plays a crucial role in coordinating NATO's nuclear and non-nuclear defense strategies, a responsibility the US is reluctant to fully transfer to European allies.
