The Pentagon intends to remove approximately 5,000 US troops from Germany, as confirmed by a senior defense official. Criticism arose after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made comments deemed “inappropriate and unhelpful” regarding the US-Iran conflict. President Trump responded by expressing consideration for troop reductions not only in Germany but also in Spain and Italy, citing lack of support from European allies. Germany’s Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, acknowledged the country’s readiness for potential troop reductions amid these developments.
Trump’s dissatisfaction with European allies’ contributions to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran has been evident, with previous statements hinting at troop withdrawals from countries deemed insufficiently cooperative. The US currently maintains over 36,000 active-duty troops in various bases across Germany, along with reservists and civilians. Key military operations are supported by bases in Germany, including the headquarters of US European Command and US Africa Command, as well as the strategic Ramstein Air Base.
