“Europe Must Boost Defence Spending,” Says NATO as US Weighs Troop Drawdown in Germany

NATO in Talks With US Over Germany Troop Cut, Urges Europe to Boost Defence Role

NATO on Saturday said it is engaging with the United States to understand its decision to withdraw around 5,000 troops from Germany, a move that has renewed focus on Europe’s defence responsibilities.

NATO spokesperson Allison Hart said the alliance is assessing the implications of the shift, adding that it reinforces the need for European nations to increase defence spending and take on a greater share of regional security.

In a statement, she said discussions with Washington are ongoing and expressed confidence that NATO will continue to ensure strong deterrence and defence as it moves toward a more balanced burden-sharing model.

Europe Asked to Step Up

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius echoed the sentiment, saying the reduction was foreseeable and urging European allies to assume greater responsibility for their own security. He noted that while the US military presence remains important, Europe must be prepared to do more.

US Plans Gradual Drawdown

The Pentagon has confirmed that about 5,000 US troops will be withdrawn from Germany over the next six to 12 months. Germany currently hosts around 35,000 American personnel, the largest such deployment in Europe.

The move comes amid tensions between Donald Trump and European leaders over the Iran conflict, including a recent disagreement with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Merz had criticised Washington’s approach to Iran, with a senior Pentagon official reportedly calling his remarks “inappropriate and unhelpful.” The development underscores ongoing debates within NATO over burden-sharing as the alliance adapts to shifting security dynamics.