WASHINGTON — Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said Friday that Washington will withdraw around 5,000 troops from Germany following a review of its military posture in Europe.Parnell said the decision reflects current operational requirements and conditions on the ground, adding that the withdrawal is expected to be completed within six to 12 months.Earlier this week, U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington is assessing a broader reduction of its military presence in Germany amid tensions within NATO over the ongoing war with Iran.The remarks followed criticism from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who said the United States lacks a clear exit strategy and described the situation as unfavorable for Washington in negotiations with Iran.Germany’s Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the troop reduction was “foreseeable,” adding that Europe must take on greater responsibility for its own defense.Pistorius said Germany is working to strengthen its armed forces and accelerate procurement, while maintaining close coordination with key allies including Britain, France, Poland, and Italy.NATO said it is in discussions with Washington to understand the details of the move, with spokesperson Allison Hart noting that the shift underscores the need for Europe to increase defense spending and share more responsibility.She added that NATO remains confident in its ability to maintain deterrence and defense capabilities as Europe moves toward a stronger role within the alliance.
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