Why does the US have military bases in Germany – and will Trump follow through on his threat to cut numbers?
Donald Trump has threatened to reduce the number of US troops in Germany, citing tensions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and longstanding concerns over NATO defense spending, though such threats have been made before without full implementation. The US maintains around 36,400 military personnel in Germany, primarily for strategic coordination, logistical support, and as a hub for operations in Europe and Africa. These bases, established after World War II and expanded during the Cold War, remain central to US military and NATO defense strategies despite periodic political pressure to scale them back.
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Donald Trump, irritated by recent comments by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has threatened to pull US troops out of Germany. Photograph: Sean Gallup/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenDonald Trump, irritated by recent comments by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has threatened to pull US troops out of Germany. Photograph: Sean Gallup/Getty ImagesDonald TrumpExplainerWhy does the US have military bases in Germany – and will Trump follow through on his threat to cut numbers?President has said he’s once again considering reducing the 36,400 US personnel based in Germany.
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