Top Republicans Oppose Trump on Troop Withdrawal From Germany
Top Republican lawmakers Roger Wicker and Mike Rogers have expressed concerns over President Donald Trump's plan to withdraw 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, arguing it could weaken deterrence against Russia amid the war in Ukraine. They emphasize the need for a strong U.S. military presence in Eastern Europe and call for congressional coordination on any major force posture changes. The move follows criticism from Trump over NATO allies' defense spending and Germany's stance on the U.S. war in Iran.
- ▪Senator Roger Wicker and Representative Mike Rogers oppose the troop withdrawal, warning it could embolden Vladimir Putin.
- ▪The Pentagon plans to withdraw about 5,000 U.S. personnel from Germany due to Germany's lack of support for the U.S. war in Iran.
- ▪German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that American troop presence benefits both the U.S. and Europe.
- ▪The withdrawal is expected to be completed within six to twelve months, with some troops possibly redeployed to the Indo-Pacific.
- ▪A recent poll shows 61% of Americans believe starting the war in Iran was a mistake.
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By Mandy TaheriPolitics and Culture ReporterShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.The Republican leaders of the Senate and House Armed Services committees have raised concerns about President Donald Trump’s plan to withdraw U.S. troops from Germany, a key ally of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).They warned in a Saturday statement that reducing U.S. forces in Europe would send the wrong message to Russian President Vladimir Putin in his war against Ukraine and weaken collective deterrence.The president's plan comes amid growing strain between Washington and European allies over security and defense burden-sharing.
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