Germany urges European defence push after US plans troop withdrawal

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has called on Europe to accelerate efforts to strengthen its own military capabilities following Washington’s decision to withdraw thousands of troops from Germany.

His comments came after the Pentagon announced on May 2 that the United States would pull 5,000 soldiers from Germany, its largest European base. The move comes amid rising tensions between Washington and European allies over the Iran war and trade disputes. Pistorius said the decision had been anticipated and stressed that Europe must assume greater responsibility for its own security, Reuters reports. 

"We Europeans must take on more responsibility for our own security," Pistorius said, adding, "Germany is on the right track" by expanding its armed forces, speeding up military procurement and building infrastructure.

The partial withdrawal is expected to affect the current U.S. military presence of nearly 40,000 troops in Germany, though some estimates place the figure closer to 35,000.

U.S. President Donald Trump had earlier suggested reducing troop levels following tensions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over Washington’s Middle East strategy.

Germany has announced plans to expand its Bundeswehr from around 185,000 active personnel to 260,000, although some defense analysts argue even higher numbers may be needed in light of perceived security threats from Russia.

By Sabina Mammadli