The Pentagon announced Friday that roughly 5,000 U.S. troops will leave Germany within six to twelve months, citing Europe’s failure to shoulder its defense burden.
U.S. Troop Pullback Signals Shift in NATO Burden-Sharing
A senior War Department official said the withdrawal follows a thorough review of force posture in Europe and reflects theater requirements on the ground.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the United States on Monday, calling Iranian negotiators “very skilful at not negotiating” and warning that the Iranian leadership is humiliating its own people.
The War Department described Merz’s remarks as “inappropriate and unhelpful,” adding that the President is reacting to counterproductive comments.
“The President’s decision also sends a very clear signal about how important it is for Germany and other allies to take primary responsibility for Europe’s defense,” the official said, urging a practical, business-like approach to building a Europe‑led NATO.
The pullback includes a Brigade Combat Team, a long‑range fires battalion previously slated for deployment later this year, and potentially other U.S. forces in Germany, the official added.
After increasing the number of BCTs from three to five after the Ukraine war began, the administration now plans to reduce the force back to three, officials said.
The strategic analysis that preceded the decision also noted a reprioritization of focus toward the homeland, the broader hemisphere, and the Indo‑Pacific region.
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed, “The Secretary of War has ordered the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 troops from Germany,” and said the process will be completed over the next six to twelve months.
Breccan F. Thies, White House correspondent for The Federalist and a 2025 Dao Prize recipient, covered the announcement.
