Exploring Future United States Army Roles in the Security of Southeastern Europe

Southeastern Europe is a region subject to chronic instability. Ethnic tensions, territorial disputes, and violence are recurring issues. Conflicts during the 1990s led to international interventions and a persistent US Army presence. How the future US Army role will evolve remains uncertain. Whatever the prospects, the aim of this study is to investigate future roles in a strategic perspective. In support of this investigation, the author applies qualitative methods to an analysis of critical reference documents and diverse supplementary materials. Strategic documents, policies, and plans constitute one important research set of sources. Treaties, alliances, and agreements to provide armed forces comprise a second. On the basis of analysis, this thesis reaches three major conclusions. First, the US Army will probably experience a decreased role in the future security of southeastern Europe. Second, the US Army will nonetheless continue to provide forces in the indeterminate future. Third, the long-term US Army role will likely focus on security cooperation activities.