The Trump administration is examining a possible decrease in the number of American military personnel stationed in Germany, according to statements from the U.S. President. The review follows public criticism from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding U.S. strategy in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
President Donald Trump stated on his social media platform that the United States is "studying and reviewing" a potential troop reduction, with a decision expected soon. This announcement revives a policy from the end of his first term, when plans were made to withdraw approximately 12,000 troops from a force of about 36,000. That move was not completed and was later reversed by the Biden administration, which increased deployments citing the war in Ukraine. Current estimates of the U.S. presence in Germany vary slightly between sources, ranging from over 36,000 to nearly 40,000 active-duty personnel.
The review comes amidst a diplomatic dispute triggered by Chancellor Merz's remarks. Speaking to students, Merz argued the U.S. was being "humiliated" by Iran and lacked a clear strategy for the conflict, also noting Germany's economic strain from related energy price hikes. Trump responded by accusing Merz of being acceptable to Iran possessing a nuclear weapon—a stated U.S. war aim—and has repeatedly criticized NATO allies for not supporting military efforts in the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran closed to certain shipping. Trump has recently described NATO as "a paper tiger."
European and U.S. defense reporting highlights significant political and practical hurdles to any rapid withdrawal. Germany is described as a cornerstone for NATO's European defense, hosting the U.S. European Command. Finding alternative bases on the continent with sufficient capacity would be difficult, though nations like Poland and Romania have accepted more U.S. forces. The move could disrupt medium-term plans, including the scheduled placement of long-range Tomahawk missiles in Germany by next year, a system Berlin has also requested.
Furthermore, such a decision would likely face opposition in the U.S. Congress. Legislative measures exist that limit troop withdrawals from Europe, and top Republicans previously criticized the administration for reducing forces in Romania without consultation. The Pentagon has also recently concluded a global review of U.S. military posture. The timing of the threat is noted as contrasting with messages from a recent visit by King Charles III, who emphasized the importance of European security during meetings in Washington.