04.10.2017, USA.
It is necessary to create “a military Schengen” in Europe to redeploy NATO forces against such countries as Russia, the commander of United States Army Europe, Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, said on October 3, the REGNUM Information Agency reports.
Hodges says that NATO armies must not be slowed down on borders within the EU in case of any threat.
“The alliance needs to be able to move as quick, or quicker, than Russian Federation forces if we want our deterrent capability to be effective,” the General said.
He believes that “a military Schengen” will make it possible for the armies to move freely over the roads of the 26 Schengen countries.
In May 2017, NATO troops practiced large-scale drills in Europe, and Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges complained of difficulties with redeploying military forces.
Hodges complained that it takes a week to receive a permit to redeploy troops from Germany to Poland. And it takes two weeks to receive a permit to redeploy troops through the Czech Republic.
Editorial comment
The United States continues to push for the conditions of military cooperation in Europe that would provide for even wider possibilities for the US. The old continent has recently been reacting with statements made with increasing frequency that Europe needs to create an army of its own. Statements, like those Ben Hodges made, may lead to the supporters of European military independence increasing in number.
Source: Rossa Primavera News Agency
