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President Trump has once again signaled a hardline stance toward European allies, threatening to reduce US troop levels in Germany, Italy, and Spain. The move stems from serious disagreements between the United States and European nations over the Iran military operation.
According to Reuters, Trump publicly criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, telling him to “stop interfering” on Iran. This statement marks a widening rift between the US and Europe on the Iran issue.
Politico reported that Trump’s call to reduce US troop numbers in Germany has shocked Pentagon officials. The decision not only involves America’s military commitments within NATO but also carries profound implications for European security architecture.
CNN noted that Trump is threatening to withdraw some US forces from Germany, Italy, and Spain in response to these countries’ criticism of US Iran policy. Germany, as the largest host of US troops in Europe with approximately 35,000 American soldiers, serves as a key pivot point for the US military presence on the continent.
The Guardian analysis pointed out that the US military presence in Germany dates back to the post-WWII era and has become a critical pillar of the European security system. Whether Trump will follow through on his threat remains to be seen, but the statement has already triggered alarm across European capitals.
Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced sharp questioning from senators on his second day of congressional testimony on the Iran war. Axios reported that the Pentagon is arguing that the Iran war “truce” effectively “terminated” hostilities before the 60-day War Powers Act deadline, thus avoiding the need for formal congressional authorization.