The Pentagon has announced a decision to withdraw 5,000 US troops from Germany within the next year.

That number represents about 15% of the total force remaining in the country. The decision was made after Donald Trump expressed displeasure with Donald Trump over positions taken by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Iran.

According to Defence Ministry spokesman Sean Parnell, the process will be completed in six to 12 months. Currently, more than 36,000 US troops are in Germany, based on the latest 2025 figures.

Note that this decision was previously announced. Trump had left open the possibility of a drawdown of forces, following Statements by Murch that the US “did not have a clear strategy” on Iran. The US president responded strongly, challenging the German leader’s judgment.

Despite the significant political and contextual dimension of the move, several experts believe the immediate impact on European security will be limited. The withdrawal mainly concerns part of the forces deployed after the Russian invasion of Ukraine and does not substantially alter the overall balance of power in the region.

Reactions in the US

This development has caused reactions within the US. Democrats, congressmen and senators spoke of a weak message to allies. Jean Shaheen stressed the need for unity in NATO, while Jack Reid called the decision a “serious mistake”.

He noted that the reduction of military presence in Europe, while the war in Ukraine continues, indirectly strengthens the position of Russia and Vladimir Putin.

Pressure on Europe

Meanwhile, Donald Trump announced a 25% increase in tariffs on European cars. And the move is primarily aimed at the German automaker.

Note that the US president often expresses his dissatisfaction with the European stance on security and contributions to military operations, particularly around the Hormuz Strait.

Other countries in the crosshairs

Germany is not the only country where the US military will be reduced. Trump is considering similar troop reductions in Italy and Spain. At the end of 2025, US forces in these countries would total 12,662 and 3,814 troops respectively.

In fact, in his remarks, he took issue with their attitude, saying they are not providing the required support.

.