Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has told Russian state television that US military bases in Central Asia should close up shop once the security situation in Afghanistan eases. Beyond that, says Lavrov, a US presence in the traditional Russian sphere of influence will not be necessary. We are always happy to be of service.
The U.S. supports “a stronger and more capable” European defense, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III said during an Oct. 22 press conference in Brussels—but that defense should not duplicate the functions and capabilities of the NATO alliance.