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NATO, top Republicans question US troop withdrawal from Germany
NATO said it is coordinating with the United States on Washington's plan to withdraw about 5,000 troops from Germany, as Republicans raise concerns about deterrence and alliance credibility amid the Iran war. The withdrawal is expected to be completed over six to twelve months.
Why It Matters
The move tests transatlantic defense coordination and burden-sharing as the Middle East conflict strains alliances.
Timeline
7 Events
Top Republican lawmakers warn withdrawal could signal to Putin
May 2, 2026
In a joint statement, Senator Roger Wicker and Representative Mike Rogers warned that pulling troops from Germany risks sending the wrong signal to Vladimir Putin and noted that while European allies are boosting defense spending, translating that investment into military capability will take time.
German Defense Minister Pistorius says withdrawal was to be expected
May 2, 2026
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the US troop withdrawal from Europe and from Germany was to be expected.
NATO says it is working with US to understand force-posture details in Germany
May 2, 2026
NATO said it was working with the United States to understand the details of Washington's decision on force posture in Germany.
Pentagon: Withdrawal of about 5,000 US troops from Germany expected to take 6-12 months
May 1, 2026
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the withdrawal of around 5,000 troops from Germany was expected to be completed over the next six to twelve months.
Trump expresses possibility of pulling US troops from Italy and Spain
April 30, 2026
Trump said he might pull US troops from Italy and Spain because they opposed the Iran war.
German Foreign Minister Wadephul says Berlin prepared for reduction in US troops
April 30, 2026
Wadephul said Berlin was prepared for a reduction in US troops, and that discussions would be conducted in a spirit of trust with all NATO bodies. He added that large American bases in Germany, including Ramstein Air Base, are not up for discussion.
US troop presence in Germany and Europe as of 2025
December 31, 2025
There were 36,436 active-duty US troops in Germany, 12,662 in Italy, and 3,814 in Spain.