The United States plans to withdraw about 5,000 troops from Germany within the next six to twelve months, according to the Pentagon. This decision fulfils President Donald Trump‘s earlier threat amid tensions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who criticised the US for its lack of strategy in the war with Iran.
The Pentagon’s spokesman, Sean Parnell, stated that the decision is based on a review of the Department of Defence’s force posture in Europe. This withdrawal will reduce the number of American service members in Germany by approximately 14%, from 36,000. Germany hosts key US military facilities, including Ramstein Air Base and the Landstuhl Medical Centre.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius noted that the US military presence in Germany is beneficial for both countries and stressed that European allies must take more responsibility for their own security.
The announcement faced pushback from Democrats in Congress, who argued it would strengthen Russian President Vladimir Putin and undermine US security commitments. Senator Jack Reed called the move reckless, urging the president to stop the withdrawal to avoid damaging alliances.
For years, Trump has expressed interest in reducing US troops in Germany and has criticised NATO for not adequately supporting US efforts. He previously suggested withdrawing about 9,500 troops during his first term, but did not act on it, while President Joe Biden halted a planned withdrawal in 2021.
With the ongoing war in Ukraine and the US troop presence in Europe typically ranging from 80,000 to 100,000, NATO allies have braced for potential changes, including the redeployment of resources. The recent announcement has raised concerns among European allies about their own security readiness.
This article used information from The Associated Press.
