Trump says US to withdraw more than 5,000 troops from Germany

US President Donald Trump has confirmed plans to withdraw a significant number of American troops from Germany, saying the reduction will exceed 5,000 personnel.

“We are reducing significantly and the reduction will be much more than 5,000 troops,” Trump said.

The announcement follows earlier remarks by the President on his social media platform Truth Social, where he said he was considering pulling forces out of Germany. According to a report by The New York Times, a senior official privately described the move as a “punishment” for Germany over its statements regarding the war in Iran.

Germany currently hosts more than 36,000 US troops, the largest American military contingent in Europe.

Berlin has already responded to Washington’s plans. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said Europe would need to strengthen its defence capabilities in light of a potential reduction in US presence.

Beyond Germany, Trump has also pledged to consider withdrawing troops from Spain and Italy. Spain has reportedly drawn particular criticism from the US president due to its opposition to the war in Iran.

Italy, meanwhile, has responded to Trump’s remarks, with its defence minister stating that Rome has not refused to support the US. Around 15,000 American troops are currently stationed in Italy.