A potential drawdown of US forces in Germany could reshape NATO cooperation and diplomatic ties. Officials say a decision is imminent.
The U.S. President Donald Trump said that his administration is considering reducing the size of the American military contingent in Germany, adding that a decision will be made in the near future.
“The United States is studying and considering the possibility of reducing troops in Germany. The relevant decision will be made in the near future”
– Donald Trump
In the context of a public clash with the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the situation is escalating: Merz criticized Washington’s lack of a clear strategy toward Iran, while the Iranian leadership allegedly demeans the American nation during negotiations.
In response, Trump sharply criticized Merz, accusing him of not understanding what he was talking about, and expressing doubt about Iran’s intentions regarding its nuclear weapons.
“has no idea what he’s talking about”
– Donald Trump
The Trump administration has also repeatedly criticized some NATO members for not helping in the war the United States and Israel are waging against Iran, specifically reproaching some for not sending their naval forces to support it.
According to the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) of the U.S. Department of Defense, as of December 2025 there were a little over 68,000 service members on active duty stationed at overseas bases in Europe. The vast majority of them – about 36,400 – are stationed in Germany.
Experts’ expectations indicate that the decision to reduce the U.S. military presence in Germany could influence the overall dynamics of transatlantic security and NATO cooperation. The coming weeks are expected to bring an official Washington position on this issue.