Germany says U.S. troop withdrawal 'anticipated', Spain and Italy could be next
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that the U.S. decision to withdraw around 5,000 troops from Germany was anticipated and emphasized Germany's readiness to take on a greater defense role within NATO. The move, ordered by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, is expected to be completed within six to twelve months and leaves over 30,000 U.S. troops in Germany. The Trump administration is also considering troop reductions in Italy and Spain, citing their responses to the Iran conflict.
- ▪The Pentagon announced the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, expected to be completed in six to twelve months.
- ▪German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has committed the country to spending over three percent of GDP on defense by next year.
- ▪The U.S. is considering troop reductions in Italy and Spain, with President Trump criticizing their stance on the Iran conflict.
- ▪This marks a partial reversal of the troop buildup in Germany that began under President Biden after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
- ▪NATO spokesperson Allison Hart emphasized the need for European allies to increase their defense investments following the announcement.
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Europe Germany says U.S. troop withdrawal 'anticipated', Spain and Italy could be next May 2, 20268:57 PM ET By Willem Marx German Chancellor Friedrich Merz gives a statement during his visit to the army at the Bundeswehr base in Munster, Germany, Thursday, April, 30, 2026. Markus Schreiber/AP hide caption toggle caption Markus Schreiber/AP German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius sought to project calm Saturday after the Pentagon announced it would withdraw roughly 5,000 troops from his country, calling the decision "anticipated" and insisting his country is ready to shoulder more of the burden of its defense.
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