Pavkovic: Trump won't shut down Bondsteel; the Balkans remain a strategic stronghold

Milos Pavkovic, an associate of the Center for European Policy, told Kosovo Online that the closure of the Bondsteel base and the withdrawal of American troops from Kosovo should not be expected, despite some predictions that this might happen with Donald Trump leading the U.S. for the next four years.

He pointed out that during Trump's first term, preparations were made for the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, and that this has often led to comparisons suggesting a similar withdrawal from Kosovo might occur.

"I don't believe that will be the case because it has been demonstrated that NATO's eastern flank is crucial for the U.S., and I don’t think any administration would make such a radical decision as closing Bondsteel. On the other hand, while Trump is known for his isolationist policies and the 'America First' approach, it is unlikely to extend to withdrawing from a strategically significant stronghold like the Balkans and Southeastern Europe. Therefore, I think we shouldn’t expect the Americans to withdraw," Pavkovic assessed.

He added that it is possible that Trump’s new administration might threaten to withdraw in its dealings with the current government in Pristina, but it is too early to say whether this will actually happen.