Merz urges continued U.S. partnership as Trump confirms deeper cuts in Germany

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has appealed for continued cooperation with the United States and President Donald Trump, following Washington’s announcement of deeper-than-expected reductions in U.S. troops stationed in Germany.

Speaking just hours after the White House confirmed the cuts, Merz struck a conciliatory tone. “I am not giving up on working on the transatlantic relationship, nor am I giving up on working with Donald Trump,” he said.

President Trump, however, made clear that the drawdown would surpass initial speculation. Reports had suggested a reduction of roughly 5,000 troops, but Trump dismissed those figures. “We’re going to cut way down, and we’re cutting a lot further than 5,000,” he said, without specifying a final number.

The move signals a sharp shift in U.S. defense posture in Europe. White House officials framed the decision as a long-overdue correction, arguing that Germany and other European allies have relied excessively on American protection while failing to meet their own defense spending commitments.

“America is no longer subsidizing Europe’s defense,” a senior administration official said, echoing Trump’s longstanding criticism of NATO allies. The official added that other European nations hosting U.S. troops could also face reductions.

Merz’s plea reflects growing concern in Berlin over the future of the bilateral security relationship. The chancellor’s comments suggest an effort to prevent further deterioration just as tensions with Russia remain high and European defense capabilities remain under strain.

Neither the Pentagon nor the German Defense Ministry has yet confirmed the exact scale or timeline of the planned withdrawals.