Trump Plans Significant U.S. Troop Reductions in Germany Amid Tensions With European Allies

Sun, 03 May 2026 11:51:00 +0200

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will significantly reduce its troop presence in Germany, escalating tensions with European allies, particularly Chancellor Friedrich Merz. While the Pentagon had initially planned to withdraw 5,000 troops over six to twelve months, Trump indicated that the reduction will be much larger without providing further details. The announcement drew bipartisan concern in Washington, with Democrats criticizing the move and some Republicans warning it could send the wrong signal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose invasion of Ukraine has been ongoing since 2022. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius acknowledged the expected drawdown but emphasized the importance of continued U.S. military presence for both Germany and the U.S. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart highlighted that the move underscores the need for Europe to invest more in defense. Trump’s decision comes amid broader friction with European leaders over issues including Ir