The United States has ordered the withdrawal of about 5,000 troops from Germany within the next year, marking a new strain in transatlantic relations amid rising tensions over trade and the Middle East conflict.
The Pentagon confirmed on Friday that the decision was issued by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, with the withdrawal expected to be completed within six to twelve months.
“We expect the withdrawal to be completed over the next six to twelve months,” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement, adding that the move followed a review of US force posture in Europe.
“This decision follows a thorough review of the Department’s force posture in Europe and is in recognition of theater requirements and conditions on the ground,” he added.
The development comes as US President Donald Trump announced plans to raise tariffs on cars and trucks from the European Union to 25 percent next week, accusing the bloc of failing to comply with a previously signed trade agreement.
Trump also renewed criticism of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently described Iran as “humiliating” Washington during negotiations. Trump dismissed the comment, saying Merz “thinks it’s OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about!”
The US President had earlier indicated that Washington was reviewing possible troop reductions in Germany, while also suggesting similar cuts in Italy and Spain due to their positions on US foreign policy and the Middle East conflict.
“Yeah, probably, I probably will. Why shouldn’t I?” Trump said when asked about potential troop withdrawals from European allies.
Germany, however, has downplayed concerns, with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul saying the country was “prepared” for adjustments in US troop levels but insisted key military installations remain vital.
While acknowledging possible reductions, Wadephul said large US bases such as Ramstein Air Base were “not up for discussion at all,” describing them as essential for both US and European security.
European Union officials have also maintained that US military presence remains important for regional stability, calling Washington a “vital partner in contributing to Europe’s security and defense.”
The troop withdrawal comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension, with European nations already increasing defense spending following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and growing concerns over long-term US commitment to NATO security arrangements.
