U.S. to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany in next 6-12 months
The United States plans to withdraw approximately 5,000 troops from Germany within the next six to 12 months, representing about 14% of the 36,000 U.S. service members currently stationed there. The decision follows President Donald Trump's threats to reduce troop presence after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized U.S. strategy in the war with Iran. The move has drawn criticism from U.S. lawmakers and defense experts who argue it could weaken NATO and benefit Russian interests.
- ▪The Pentagon announced the withdrawal of about 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, amounting to 14% of the 36,000 stationed there.
- ▪President Donald Trump threatened the withdrawal after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized U.S. strategy in the war with Iran.
- ▪The decision has been criticized by Democrats and defense analysts who say it undermines U.S. alliances and strengthens Russian influence in Europe.
- ▪Germany hosts key U.S. military installations, including Ramstein Air Base and the headquarters for U.S. European and Africa commands.
- ▪A similar troop withdrawal plan was proposed during Trump's first term but was halted by President Joe Biden upon taking office in 2021.
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National Security U.S. to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany in next 6-12 months May 2, 20261:33 AM ET By The Associated Press President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a charter school in The Villages, Fla., Friday, May 1, 2026. Matt Rourke/AP hide caption toggle caption Matt Rourke/AP WASHINGTON — The United States will withdraw about 5,000 troops from Germany in the next six to 12 months, the Pentagon said Friday, fulfilling President Donald Trump's threat as he clashes with the German leader over the U.S. war with Iran. World Trump lashes out at NATO after countries decline to help in Iran Trump had threatened to withdraw some troops from the NATO ally earlier this week after Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the U.S.
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