U.S. European Command has restricted American military personnel, Department of Defense civilian employees, contractors and command-sponsored dependents and family members from traveling to Brussels, Belgium, according to a statement issued late Tuesday.
All travel of U.S. military members has been prohibited until further notice, with the exception of those on official travel or emergency leave. The decision comes hours after three terrorist attacks left 34 people dead and many others wounded.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to our military family, the people of Brussels and all those impacted by these horrific terror attacks,” said Gen. Philip Breedlove, commander of European Command. “We will assist Belgium in any way our military can. We strongly condemn these attacks and will continue to stand by our NATO allies and partners to defeat these terrorist who threaten our freedoms and our way of life.”
Breedlove confirmed EUCOM is aware of one U.S. service member who was a victim of the attack, but have not released his or her name due to confidentiality reasons.
American citizens in Brussels have been advised by the U.S. Embassy to remain vigilant and aware of the local security situation.
