Donald Trump has said the US would reduce its troops in Germany “a lot further,” potentially exceeding the previously announced plan to withdraw 5,000 personnel. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius warned that Europe must step up to defend itself, framing the shift as a test of European responsibility amid changing US commitments.
Germany’s defense minister said the withdrawal of US troops was anticipated, urging Europe to strengthen its own security. The Pentagon has outlined plans to leave about 5,000 soldiers over the next year amid worsening transatlantic tensions. The shift comes as President Trump signals possible tariff increases on European vehicles, adding pressure to already strained relations.
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Trump has intensified friction with Europe after attacking German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over Merz’s criticism of the Iran war. Trump called him “totally ineffective” and warned he could cut the 36,400 U.S. troops stationed in Germany. The comments add to already strained transatlantic relations and raise questions about Europe’s security commitments to Washington.
Donald Trump has threatened to reduce US troop presence in Germany, pointing to a dispute with Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The clash reportedly follows differing views on the war with Iran and its wider economic fallout. Merz has warned that the conflict could hurt global growth, while Trump has previously pushed Germany on defense spending—despite the US still operating major facilities there.
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