US to withdraw thousands of troops from Germany
dw.com • • general
Key Points:
- US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 American troops from Germany, to be completed within six to 12 months, following a review of US force posture in Europe.
- The announcement follows US President Donald Trump's recent threats to reduce troop numbers in Germany and his criticism of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over comments on US-Iran relations.
- German officials expressed surprise at the withdrawal decision despite previously constructive talks with the Pentagon, though Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated the country is prepared for a troop reduction and values key US bases like Ramstein.
- The US currently has over 36,000 active service members stationed in Germany, the largest US military presence in Europe, including major facilities such as Ramstein Air Base and headquarters for US European and Africa Commands.
- Tensions have risen due to recent German rhetoric on Iran, prompting US officials to view some comments as counterproductive, while Trump also announced increased tariffs on EU vehicles, impacting Germany significantly.
