(USA, 3rd) US President Trump said that there are plans to significantly reduce the number of US troops stationed in Germany, exceeding the previously announced 5,000 personnel.
Bloomberg reported that on Saturday (May 2), while boarding Air Force One in Miami, Florida, Trump said: “We will significantly reduce (the troop presence) in Germany, and the number will be well over 5,000.” He did not provide further details.
Trump has grown increasingly dissatisfied with European countries, accusing them of ignoring his requests for assistance in the Iran war and to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
The Pentagon announced on Friday (the 1st) that approximately 5,000 soldiers would be withdrawn from Germany within the next year. This news has sparked widespread concern among European countries and US Republican lawmakers.
The Pentagon announced on Friday (the 1st) that approximately 5,000 soldiers would be withdrawn from Germany within the next year. This news has sparked widespread concern among European countries and US Republican lawmakers.
There are about 35,000 US troops stationed in Germany, almost half the total number of US forces in Europe; America's European command is also based in Germany.
On April 27, German Chancellor Merz criticized the US for attacking Iran without developing any strategy, resulting in a dilemma and humiliation at the hands of Iran. Afterward, Trump posted online saying Merz “simply doesn't know what she's talking about” and threatened to withdraw troops from Germany.
Trump previously attempted to pull troops from Germany during his first presidential term, but was blocked by legislation. The latest order is also likely to face similar opposition in Congress.
On April 27, German Chancellor Merz criticized the US for attacking Iran without developing any strategy, resulting in a dilemma and humiliation at the hands of Iran. Afterward, Trump posted online saying Merz “simply doesn't know what she's talking about” and threatened to withdraw troops from Germany.
Trump previously attempted to pull troops from Germany during his first presidential term, but was blocked by legislation. The latest order is also likely to face similar opposition in Congress.