Republicans air concerns after US announces 5,000 troops to leave Germany
The Pentagon announced the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany over the next six to 12 months, prompting concerns from Republican lawmakers about NATO alliances and US security. The move, which reduces the US troop presence in Germany by 14%, follows criticism from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding US strategy in Iran talks. German and NATO officials expressed concern, while some US lawmakers warned the decision could benefit Russia and weaken long-term security interests.
- ▪The Pentagon confirmed the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany, amounting to about 14% of the total US troop presence in the country.
- ▪Senators Roger Wicker and Mike Rogers expressed concern that the troop withdrawal could harm NATO alliances and US national security.
- ▪German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized the US approach in Iran negotiations, which preceded the announcement of the troop withdrawal.
- ▪German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stated that the American military presence is in Europe's interest and called for greater European responsibility for security.
- ▪NATO is working with the US to understand the details of the force posture change in Germany.
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Republicans concerned about NATO alliance after decision to withdraw 5,000 US troops from GermanyBy Anna Cox with wiresTopic:World Politics1h ago1 hours agoSat 2 May 2026 at 8:12pmThe Pentagon confirmed 5,000 US troops would be withdrawn from Germany in the next year. (Reuters: Kevin Lamarque)In short:Two US Republicans serving on armed services committees are concerned the Pentagon's decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany could hinder NATO alliances and US security.The withdrawal of about 14 per cent of US troops from Germany is expected over the next six to 12 months.The decision comes after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Iran was "humiliating" the United States in talks to end the war.abc.net.au/news/republican-pushback-over-us-troop-withdrawal-from-germany/106635480Link…
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