DID Press: Germany responded to Washington’s decision to withdraw 5,000 troops, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius saying the move was “predictable” and reinforcing the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security.
Pistorius stated that Germany is “on the right track” in strengthening its armed forces, including expanding the Bundeswehr, accelerating military procurement, and developing defense infrastructure.
The U.S. had announced the planned withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany, where around 40,000 American soldiers are currently stationed. Despite the reduction, Pistorius stressed that the U.S. military presence in Europe remains beneficial for both sides.
He added that future partial reductions of U.S. forces in Europe are expected and should be viewed as part of a broader strategic shift rather than an unexpected development.