US general: US troops in Baltic states are response to Russia's aggression

RIGA - The US troops deployed in Latvia and the neighboring countries are a response to Russia's aggressive actions, General Curtis Scaparrotti, the current commander of the United States European Command (USEUCOM), after his meeting with Latvian Defense Minister Raimonds Bergmanis on Wednesday.

The general spoke highly about cooperation between Latvia and the US. He said that his visit is a proof of the wish to strengthen the Baltic region, ensuring security and stability in it. "The US troops are here to support freedom and peace in Europe," said the US official. He praised Latvia's resolution to achieve defense budget at 2 percent of the gross domestic product.

Scaparrotti, reminded that thousands of US troops will rotate to the Baltic region, take part in exercises and drills, building close ties between the military forces of the countries.

The general said that the US troops will remain in Latvia as long as it is necessary.

Scaparrotti is also the current Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) of NATO.