During a visit to Poland, President Barack Obama has announced plans for a US$1 billion fund(approximately NZ$1.18 billion) to increase US military deployments to Europe.
Mr Obama, who is to meet Nato leaders amid concerns over the Ukraine crisis, said the security of America's European allies was "sacrosanct", the BBC reported.
US President Barack Obama at a press conference at Belweder Palace in Warsaw, Poland. Photo: AFP
In April, 150 US soldiers were sent to Poland for military exercises amid growing tensions with Russia.
Mr Obama will also visit Belgium and France during his European tour.
Ukraine
Meanwhile, Nato defence ministers were set to meet in Brussels to discuss the long-term security implications of Russian actions over Ukraine.
The Kremlin has denied Western claims that it is supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Speaking at a news conference in Warsaw with Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski, Mr Obama warned Russia against provoking further tensions in Ukraine.
The BBC reported that the US president called on Moscow to use its influence to call off separatists in Ukraine's east.
Mr Obama reaffirmed the US commitment to Nato's principle of collective defence, announcing plans for the US$1bn European Reassurance Initiative.
The programme, which will fund additional US military rotations to Europe, will need congressional approval.
The US would also "step up partnership" with countries such as Ukraine and Moldova, he added.
