West Coast. Simple numbers. The US is a superpower, whatever that may mean. If a certain occupant of the Kremlin decided to invade one of the Baltic States, he would be much more confident if the US wasn't going to come to the rescue. Despite what some people may say, the US saved Europe's bacon twice in the last century, and I'd like to think they would be prepared to stand up if needed in this. Given the power of the US, simply being there is probably deterrent enough. "Speak softly and carry a big stick" Theodore Roosevelt I believe.