US cutting a lot more than 5,000 troops from Germany: Trump

04-May-2026

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President Donald Trump announced a significant reduction of U.S. troops stationed in Germany, escalating tensions with Chancellor Friedrich Merz amid calls for Europe to take more responsibility for its defense. 

The initial withdrawal of 5,000 troops, about one-seventh of the American forces there, faces bipartisan criticism in Washington due to concerns over security and relations with Russia. Germany and NATO emphasize the importance of trans-Atlantic cooperation, while Trump also threatens EU tariffs, increasing transatlantic trade and security frictions.