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Trump considers troop cuts in Germany
US President Donald Trump announced late Wednesday that his administration is evaluating a potential reduction of American troops stationed in Germany. The review comes days after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized Trump's handling of negotiations with Iran.
Merz's criticism sparks diplomatic spat
Merz recently suggested that the US had been "humiliated" by Iranian negotiators, arguing that Washington lacked a clear strategy. Speaking to university students earlier this week, he questioned the US approach, stating, "The Iranians are very skilled at not negotiating." He also claimed the Iranian leadership was humiliating the "entire nation."
Trump responded sharply on social media, accusing Merz of being "OK with Iran having a nuclear weapon" and urging him to focus on Germany's domestic challenges, including immigration and energy policies. "No wonder Germany is doing so poorly, both economically and otherwise!" Trump wrote.
Troop presence at stake
The US maintains its largest European military footprint in Germany, with over 36,000 active-duty troops as of December. Key installations include Ramstein Air Base near Kaiserslautern. While Trump has previously proposed troop reductions-including a 2020 plan to relocate 12,000 soldiers-Congress blocked the move, and President Joe Biden later reversed it.
Merz, however, has downplayed the latest tensions, telling reporters Wednesday that his "personal relationship" with Trump remains strong. During a visit to German troops Thursday, he emphasized NATO's importance and "transatlantic solidarity" without directly addressing Trump's remarks.
Defense spending and NATO tensions
Trump has long criticized Germany for failing to meet NATO's defense spending target of 2% of GDP. However, under Merz's leadership, Germany's military budget has surged, with projected spending reaching €105.8 billion (£91 billion) in 2027-equivalent to 3.1% of GDP next year.
Despite assurances from Trump in March that the US would maintain its military presence in Germany, recent rhetoric suggests growing frustration. Trump has repeatedly threatened to withdraw from NATO, calling the alliance a "paper tiger" and accusing European members of insufficient support for US policies, particularly regarding Iran.
Alliance rules and Pentagon leaks
Earlier this month, a leaked Pentagon email outlined potential measures to penalize NATO allies deemed unsupportive of US efforts in Iran, including a proposal to suspend Spain's membership. A NATO official clarified to the BBC that the alliance's founding treaty contains no mechanism for suspension or expulsion.
The White House has not yet commented on Trump's latest statements, and Merz has not responded to the suggestion of troop reductions.
