The US Department of Defence plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, amid a spat between US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the war with Iran.
The decision comes a day after Trump criticised Merz, who suggested the US had been “humiliated” by Iranian negotiators.
In social media posts on Thursday, Trump said Merz was “doing a terrible job” and had “problems of all kinds”, including on immigration and energy. Trump has also suggested pulling US troops from Italy and Spain.
The US has a significant military presence in Germany, with more than 36,000 active duty troops assigned to bases across the country as of last December.
WTF were 36,000 troops even doing in Germany? Securing bratwurst?
Securing major industrial hubs, in case Germany ever decides to go against US interests.
Extending US reach. Tripwiring Russian aggression. Creating leverage and secure bases from which to gather intel on the Europeans. Creating a foothold for the US weapons industry.
Only one of these directly benefit Europe.