Donald Trump says the US is considering a possible reduction of troop levels in Germany

Donald Trump said his administration is reviewing a potential reduction of US troop levels in Germany, renewing pressure on European allies he has long criticized for not contributing enough to defense efforts.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump said a decision would be made “over the next short period of time.” The remarks come amid broader tensions with NATO partners, including Germany, over military commitments and the handling of the Iran conflict.

The US currently has more than 68,000 active-duty personnel stationed across Europe, with roughly 36,400 based in Germany—far fewer than during the Cold War peak before the Fall of the Berlin Wall.

Trump has recently clashed with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the war in Iran, dismissing Merz’s criticism of US strategy. Despite the public exchanges, German officials have maintained that relations remain stable.

Meanwhile, Germany’s top general, Carsten Breuer, met US defense officials in Washington to discuss Berlin’s new military strategy, which aims to position Germany as Europe’s leading conventional force. US defense official Elbridge Colby welcomed the plan, calling it a sign that Europe is stepping up its responsibilities within NATO.

Trump has repeatedly urged NATO members to increase defense spending, even as disagreements persist over issues such as the Iran war and broader alliance priorities. Despite political friction, military officials on both sides say operational cooperation between US and German forces remains strong.