NATO is reviewing a United States plan to withdraw about 5,000 troops from Germany, a move that comes amid political tension between Washington and European allies over the illegal US-Israeli war against Iran.
The Pentagon said the reduction would take place over the next six to twelve months following a review of US force posture in Europe. Around 36,000 American troops are currently stationed in Germany, the largest US military presence on the continent.
NATO confirmed it is working with Washington to assess the details of the decision. Spokesperson Allison Hart said the alliance is seeking clarity on how the changes will affect defence arrangements in Europe.
The withdrawal follows a dispute between US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Merz said earlier that the United States was being “humiliated” in negotiations with Iran, prompting criticism from Trump, who accused the German leader of interfering.
Trump has also criticised European allies for what he described as a lack of support in efforts linked to the military campaign and operations in the Strait of Hormuz. He has suggested that troop reductions could extend to other countries, including Italy and Spain.
The US defence department said the decision reflects operational requirements and conditions on the ground. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the move followed a review of military needs in the region.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the decision had been expected. He said it should prompt European countries to take greater responsibility for their own security. “We Europeans must take on more responsibility for our own security,” he said.
Germany has increased defence spending and plans to expand its armed forces, aiming to raise troop numbers and accelerate procurement. Officials said the country remains committed to strengthening its military capacity.
The planned withdrawal will reduce one brigade from Germany and cancel a long-range fires battalion that had been due for deployment. The United States has not specified whether the troops will return home or be reassigned elsewhere.
The announcement has raised concern among some European leaders. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that divisions within the alliance pose a risk to its stability. He called on member states to act to maintain cohesion.
The decision also comes alongside trade tensions. Trump has proposed increased tariffs on European Union car imports, a measure that could affect Germany’s economy.
Germany hosts key US military infrastructure, including Ramstein Air Base and medical facilities that support operations in Europe and beyond. The presence dates back decades and forms part of NATO’s broader security framework.
Despite the planned reduction, NATO officials said they remain confident in the alliance’s ability to maintain deterrence and defence. Member states have pledged to increase military spending, with targets rising in recent agreements.
HT
