New Delhi, May 02: The US Department of Defence is planning to withdraw around 5,000 troops from Germany, amid a sharp war of words between Donald Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the Iran conflict, reports BBC.
The move comes a day after Trump criticised Merz for remarks suggesting the US had been “humiliated” by Iranian negotiators.
According to the Pentagon, the order has been issued by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth following a review of US military deployment in Europe, with the withdrawal expected to be completed within six to twelve months.
Trump has also hinted at reducing troop presence in Italy and Spain, criticising both allies for not supporting US-led efforts linked to the Iran situation.
Germany currently hosts over 36,000 US troops, making it Washington’s largest military base in Europe, including key installations such as Ramstein Air Base.
The development marks a fresh strain within the NATO alliance, which Trump has repeatedly criticised, particularly over defence spending and burden-sharing.
