U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, chaired a hearing to assess the posture and threats faced by U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).
Chairman Wicker provided an update on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlighting Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression. He stated, “The European continent is now entering its third year of war as Russia continues its brutal assault against Ukraine. There’s no question who started this war.” He emphasized the long-term threat posed by Russia, cautioning against reducing the U.S. military presence in Europe.
General Christopher Cavoli, Commander of U.S. European Command, and General Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command, participated in the hearing. They addressed concerns over the geopolitical threats from both Russia and China.
Chairman Wicker noted the Russian military’s ability to adapt and sustain itself with support from nations like China, North Korea, and Iran. He expressed concern about some Defense Department officials seeking a U.S. retreat from Europe without proper coordination with senior authorities, stating, “Withdrawing now would do away with any hope of lasting peace in Europe.”
Highlighting Europe’s response to the Russian threat, Chairman Wicker remarked, “President Trump’s leadership and the Russian threat have jolted Europe awake.” He discussed the need for the United States to lead NATO while expecting Europe to shoulder more military responsibilities.
The hearing also addressed China’s global military expansion, emphasizing its activities in Africa. Chairman Wicker observed China’s naval base in Djibouti and plans for a base on Africa’s west coast could shift strategic power dynamics, according to General Langley, who asserted such a move would “change the whole calculus of the geostrategic campaign plans of protecting the American homeland.”
Russia’s involvement in Africa, trading security assistance for natural resources to fund global activities, was also examined. Libya’s role in Russia’s strategy was highlighted as critical to Vladimir Putin’s objectives. Chairman Wicker stressed the need to counter these efforts.
Addressing terrorism in Africa, Chairman Wicker pointed to the ongoing threat from ISIS and al-Qaeda, stressing the importance of sustained pressure to prevent their resurgence. President Trump’s recent approval of strikes against ISIS leadership in Somalia was highlighted as a necessary action.
Concluding, Chairman Wicker emphasized the global nature of challenges faced by the U.S., stating, “Our adversaries view their fight against America as a global fight. We see their efforts playing out across Europe and Africa in particular.”
