Trump threatens US troop cuts in Germany, Spain and Italy over Iran rift
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Trump says US is reviewing possible troop reductions in Germany.
- He extends warning to Italy and Spain over disagreements on Iran strategy.
US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with key European allies, saying the United States is considering reducing its military presence in Germany and potentially in other NATO countries, including Italy and Spain, amid growing disputes over Washington’s approach to the conflict with Iran.
Writing on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday night, Trump said the US was “studying and reviewing the possible reduction of Troops in Germany,” adding that a decision would be made in the near future.
On Thursday, Trump broadened his criticism, suggesting that troop levels in Italy and Spain could also be reviewed.
When asked about potential cuts, he said: “Yeah, probably will. Why shouldn’t I? Italy has not been of any help. Spain has been horrible. Absolutely.”
The remarks signal widening friction between Washington and European capitals over strategic coordination in the US-led campaign related to Iran.
The dispute comes as European governments and the Trump administration differ sharply over how to handle the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz drew criticism from Trump earlier this week after stating that the United States was being “humiliated” by Tehran and questioning the effectiveness of Washington’s strategy.
European officials have expressed concern over the unpredictability of US messaging. German lawmaker Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann told CNN that trust in Washington’s security commitments has weakened.
She described Trump’s statements as inconsistent, saying: “Every morning we could read a new message… maybe tomorrow it’s a different message. So I think we really have to cool down.”
The comments add further uncertainty to NATO relations at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, with European allies increasingly divided over how to align with US policy in the Middle East and beyond.
