Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw more US troops from Germany after last week's announcement of 5,000 soldiers being pulled out stunned European leaders and some senior members of his own party. The US president told reporters on Saturday that more cuts were coming, saying, 'We are going to cut way down, and we’re cutting a lot further than 5,000.'
The initial decision to reduce US personnel in Germany came after the German chancellor, Friedrich Merz, said the United States was being 'humiliated' by Iran. Speaking to students last month, Merz criticised Iran's negotiating tactics and expressed hope that the situation would end quickly. The Pentagon announced the withdrawal on Friday, citing a 'thorough review of the Department’s force posture in Europe' and recognition of theatre requirements.
Republican leaders on the armed services committees in Congress expressed concern. Senator Roger Wicker and Representative Mike Rogers said in a joint statement they were 'very concerned' about the possibility of reducing troops in Germany. They noted that Germany had increased defence spending and provided support for US forces in Operation Epic Fury. They called for any troop reduction to be coordinated with Congress and allies, suggesting that the 5,000 troops be moved to eastern Europe instead.
A Pentagon email leaked to Reuters also suggested punishing Spain, a vocal critic of the war, by suspending it from the NATO alliance. The developments highlight tensions between the US and its European allies over the conflict in Iran.
