The Pentagon confirmed Sunday that all B-1 bombers stationed at Royal Air Force Base Fairford in Britain have been withdrawn to the United States, hours after the pullout was first reported.
The withdrawal follows fury within the Trump administration over Britain's handling of a terror investigation at Fairford. US officials were incensed when British authorities released suspects arrested at the scene less than 24 hours after their detention, despite developments in the investigation pointing to Iranian connections. Days later, another suspect was arrested but also quickly released on bail. President Donald Trump called the decision to free the detainees "inconceivable."
Britain has long served as one of America's primary power centers in Europe, but Trump now appears to be shifting course. Reports indicate contacts with Poland about establishing an American "mega-base" in that country, which could replace Britain and other nations as a hub. The move also leaves the British and Europeans without long-range strike capability at a time when Russia continues to pose threats.
