The Donald Trump administration announced on May 1 that it plans to reduce the U.S. troop presence in Germany by approximately 5,000 personnel.
Sean Parnell, the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson, confirmed in a statement to News1 that the Secretary of Defense has ordered the withdrawal of roughly 5,000 troops stationed in Germany.
Parnell elaborated that this decision follows a comprehensive review of the military posture in Europe, taking into account operational theaters and local conditions.
He added that the drawdown is expected to be completed within six to twelve months.
Previously, CBS, Reuters, and the Washington Post reported that the Pentagon was considering plans to reduce the U.S. force in Germany by about 5,000 troops, or 14% of the current 36,000-strong contingent (based on U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) figures from late 2025).
Senior Pentagon officials cited President Trump’s frustration with European allies’ limited support during the Iran conflict as a factor in this decision.
Trump has recently voiced public dissatisfaction with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, for their reluctance to support U.S. military operations against Iran.
Germany hosts the second-largest U.S. military presence outside of Japan, with over 36,000 active-duty personnel, 1,500 reservists, and 11,500 civilians. It’s home to U.S. European Command and Africa Command headquarters, with Ramstein Air Base serving as a crucial operational hub.
Some of the withdrawn troops may return stateside before potential redeployment to other regions, such as the Indo-Pacific. Officials noted this aligns with the Pentagon’s strategic shift from Europe to homeland defense and the Indo-Pacific theater.
Defense officials assured that the drawdown won’t impact medical operations at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, which continues to treat troops injured in the Iran conflict.
The reduction is expected to affect one brigade-sized combat team in Germany.
A long-range artillery battalion slated for deployment this year will also be reassigned, partly adjusting for the increased troop levels in Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Trump has hinted at possible troop reductions in Italy and Spain as well. Tensions have escalated with Chancellor Merz, particularly after Merz criticized U.S. strategy on Iran, prompting a sharp rebuke from Trump.
A senior Pentagon official told CBS that the President has clearly expressed his frustration with the allies’ statements and their lack of support for U.S. military operations that benefit them.
Trump has long criticized NATO members for insufficient defense spending and overreliance on the U.S., recently calling for greater European involvement in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Trump’s previous attempt to reduce U.S. forces in Germany was reversed by the Joe Biden administration.
While Trump has labeled NATO a paper tiger and suggested withdrawal, 2023 legislation now requires congressional approval for such a move.
As overseas troop reductions materialize, attention turns to potential impacts on the 28,500 U.S. troops stationed in South Korea.
Trump recently expressed dissatisfaction, noting that while U.S. forces defend South Korea against North Korea, Seoul hasn’t reciprocated in supporting U.S. efforts in Iran.
Major General Xavier Brunson, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, recently emphasized a focus on capabilities rather than troop numbers during a House hearing.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised South Korea in a recent statement to the House Armed Services Committee, calling it an exemplary ally for taking primary responsibility for its defense against North Korea.