European leaders have reacted with concern and reflection after U.S. President Donald Trump unexpectedly announced plans to withdraw thousands of American troops from Germany, a move many now see as a warning that Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security, according to Arab News.
Speaking at a summit in Yerevan, Armenia, on Monday, leaders said the decision did not come with clear explanations and caught many allies off guard. The Pentagon had initially confirmed the withdrawal of about 5,000 troops, but Trump later suggested the reduction would be even larger, saying the U.S. would “cut way down.”
The announcement comes at a tense moment. Trump has been locked in a growing dispute with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, particularly over the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran. He has also expressed frustration that European allies have been hesitant to take a stronger role in the conflict.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre downplayed the immediate impact but acknowledged a broader shift. He said Europe has long expected to take on more responsibility for its own defense, adding that such changes should be handled carefully within NATO to maintain unity.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the timing as surprising, even if discussions about reducing U.S. forces in Europe have been ongoing. She said the move reinforces the need to strengthen Europe’s role within NATO.
NATO officials are now working to understand the details of Washington’s plans. While some troop reductions had been anticipated since Trump returned to office, U.S. officials had previously promised close coordination with allies to avoid destabilizing the region.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte sought to calm concerns, suggesting that the decision reflects American frustration with Europe’s limited support in the Iran conflict. Several countries, including France, Spain, and the United Kingdom, have declined to fully support U.S. military operations, with Spain even denying access to its airspace and bases.
Despite the tensions, European nations are beginning to adjust. Rutte noted that countries are strengthening military arrangements and preparing assets closer to potential conflict zones, though many remain cautious about deeper involvement while the war continues.__Photo Courtesy X
