Berlin
Germany has urged European nations to strengthen their own defence systems after the United States announced a reduction of its military presence in Germany.
The Pentagon confirmed that about 5,000 American troops will be withdrawn, reducing the long-standing US deployment in Europe’s largest economy.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the decision was expected but stressed that Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security. He said Germany is already working to expand its armed forces, speed up defence purchases, and improve military infrastructure.
The US currently has around 35,000 to 40,000 troops stationed in Germany, including key bases such as Ramstein Air Base and Landstuhl Hospital, which have supported American military operations abroad for decades. The latest move includes the withdrawal of one brigade and cancellation of a planned long-range fires battalion deployment.
Officials said the reduction comes amid rising tensions between the US and Europe over issues such as the Iran conflict and trade tariffs. The decision has added pressure on NATO members, who have already pledged to increase defence responsibilities but face challenges due to limited budgets and capability gaps.
Germany plans to increase its active military personnel from about 185,000 to 260,000. However, experts say building full defence readiness across Europe will take several years.
The US military presence in Germany dates back to World War II and reached its peak during the Cold War. The latest changes mark another shift in transatlantic defence relations and raise concerns about future security balance in Europe.
