Merz said the proposed withdrawal of thousands of American troops was not linked to recent disagreements with US President Donald Trump over the conflict involving Iran. He reiterated that the US remains Germany’s most important partner within the NATO framework.
The comments come after tensions emerged following Merz’s criticism of US actions in Iran, which drew a sharp response from Washington. Shortly after, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 troops from Germany over the next year.
Germany currently hosts the largest number of US troops in Europe, making the move strategically significant for transatlantic relations.
Alliance Under Pressure
The situation reflects broader strains within NATO, as European countries face increasing pressure to boost their own defense capabilities. While Germany has historically maintained close ties with the US, recent geopolitical developments have highlighted differences over foreign policy and security strategies.
Despite these tensions, German officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining strong cooperation with Washington, while also acknowledging the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security.
The US decision, along with ongoing global tensions and economic pressures, continues to shape the future of the transatlantic alliance.