(Photo: Anadolu)
WASHINGTON – The Pentagon is considering withdrawing at least 25,000 US troops from Europe as part of a broader review of America’s military presence on the continent, according to reports citing current and former US and Western officials.
One option under consideration could involve withdrawing as many as 40,000 personnel. About 80,000 US troops are currently stationed in Europe, meaning a 25,000-person drawdown would reduce the American presence by nearly one-third. No final decision has been made.
Germany, Italy and Spain, which host substantial numbers of US forces, are among the countries that could be affected.
The proposals are part of a Pentagon review launched in June to reassess US force posture across Europe. Options reportedly cover ground, air and naval forces and could include shifting some personnel toward NATO’s eastern flank.
Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, head of US European Command and NATO’s supreme allied commander, is expected to provide an initial assessment to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, with a final recommendation expected later this year.
The Trump administration has pressed European allies to assume greater responsibility for their conventional defense as Washington considers shifting resources toward other regions.
The possible drawdown has raised concerns among some US lawmakers and European officials over its potential effect on NATO deterrence, particularly amid tensions with Russia.
The review has also prompted calls in the US Senate for the State Department and American diplomats in Europe to be more closely involved in the decision-making process.
