President Donald Trump announced plans to significantly reduce U.S. troop levels in Germany, deepening a rift with Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The Pentagon's initial plan to cut 5,000 troops over the next year was met with Trump's insistence on a much larger drawdown.
"We're going to cut way down. And we're cutting a lot further than 5,000," Trump stated in Florida, without specifying a new target.
The decision stems from Trump's frustration with European allies refusing to join U.S.-Israeli operations in Iran. Merz criticized the campaign, accusing Washington of lacking a coherent strategy.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius downplayed the announcement, calling the reduction expected and emphasizing Europe's need to bolster its own defense. He noted the mutual benefits of U.S. presence in Germany.
The withdrawal faces bipartisan backlash in Washington. Critics argue it sends a “wrong signal” to Russia, whose war in Ukraine continues into its fifth year.
In a separate trade dispute, Trump threatened 25% tariffs on EU cars and trucks, targeting Germany’s auto industry. EU trade chair Bernd Lange called the move “unacceptable” and labeled Washington an unreliable partner.
A 5,000-troop reduction represents about one-seventh of the 36,000 U.S. service members stationed in Germany. Troop cuts may also extend to Italy and Spain, following clashes over Iran policy.