Pentagon Weighs Cutting About 5,000 US Troops in Europe, Not 25,000

The Pentagon, the US Department of Defense, is considering a smaller reduction of American troops in Europe than first projected as it reviews where US forces are deployed. Bloomberg reports that some European NATO allies had earlier feared the departure of about 25,000 American service members, but the estimate is now around 5,000. The figure matters for European security, as Russia's war in Ukraine continues.

A source familiar with the discussions told the agency that NATO member states are currently making this projection. About 80,000 US troops are stationed in Europe at present.

Germany and the eastern flank

According to Bloomberg, Germany could be affected most, as it hosts the largest American military contingent in Europe. Relations between Berlin and Washington have recently become more strained amid disagreements between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump.

On NATO's eastern flank, by contrast, the American presence could even increase. Several countries in the region are reportedly willing to help cover the extra costs of hosting more US troops.

Background

The US had previously announced plans to reduce its military contingent in Germany, and in May a planned deployment of troops to Poland was cancelled. The broader review of US force posture began in July.

US Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker said earlier this month that no major changes are expected. He noted that the US already has substantial military capabilities in Europe in the places where they are needed.

A Pentagon spokesperson confirmed to Bloomberg that the review is ongoing and that there is no new information to release yet. US war secretary Pete Hegseth is expected to submit final recommendations to Trump on 1 December.