Last week, President Joe Biden issued an executive order, granting approval for the mobilization of select reserve forces with up to 3,000 personnel to support Operation Atlantic Resolve.
Army Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Sims II, Joint Staff director of operations, stated during a press briefing that this operation will be designated as a contingency operation, providing increased authorities, entitlements, and access to the reserve component forces and personnel.
The executive order reaffirms the commitment to defend NATO’s eastern flank in response to Russia’s illegal and unprovoked war on Ukraine. U.S. European Command (Eucom) will utilize this new authority to continue supporting NATO’s collective security. It’s important to note that this designation will not alter the current force-posture levels in Europe.
The new authorities demonstrate the United States’ commitment to its allies and partners, granting Eucom greater flexibility to provide essential entitlements to the forces supporting these commitments.
The U.S. remains dedicated to supporting Ukraine during these challenging times.
Despite severe fighting, Ukrainian forces have shown remarkable resilience, utilizing new equipment and techniques, even in the face of difficult terrain and well-fortified Russian defenses.
The support from the U.S. and its allies is crucial in helping Ukraine navigate through these challenges.