President Donald Trump revealed on Truth Social on 29/4 that the US is evaluating a potential reduction of its forces in Germany. He stated a final decision would be announced shortly.

This declaration followed his public criticism a day prior of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz concerning the Middle East conflict. On 27/4, Merz asserted that the US lacked a clear strategy and was being "humiliated" by Iran. German officials have not yet commented on this information.

US President Donald Trump at the White House on 29/4. Photo: AP.

Germany is central to the US military presence in the region. It hosts the headquarters of the US European Command (USEUCOM), one of the leading medical treatment centers, and numerous maintenance facilities and weapon depots for the US Air Force. According to the US Congressional Research Service, over 35,000 American troops were stationed at more than 40 military bases across Germany as of 2024. European media outlets estimate the current figure to be nearly 50,000 military personnel.

President Trump has a history of criticizing NATO and threatening to reduce troop deployments in European allied nations since his first term. The US appears determined to pressure allies who do not support it in the conflict with Iran. This includes allies not participating in efforts to lift the blockade and patrol the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane currently blockaded by Tehran.

Last week, Reuters quoted an unnamed US official stating that the Pentagon had explored options to sanction NATO allies deemed "uncooperative with Washington" during the Iran campaign. An internal Pentagon email highlighted frustration over some allies refusing the US access, use of bases, and overflight rights, considered minimum levels of cooperation within NATO. The email detailed US response options, including suspending the NATO membership of "uncooperative" nations, specifically mentioning Spain.

Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)