The US will take over a Romanian air base—Mihail Kogalniceanu near the Black Sea—where, beginning in April, up to 1,500 American troops will train, reports Associated Press news service. US and Romanian officials a year ago worked out the basics of the agreement, considering at least three potential sites. As part of the arrangement, the US will front some $34 million to refurbish the facility, including revamping quarters, recreation facilities, offices, and a medical clinic.
Amid NATO’s continued push to ramp up air defenses in Eastern Europe, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall swung by seven allied countries to boost relations last week, including those on Russia’s and Ukraine’s doorstep.