Merz says the reduction of U.S. troops in Germany is unrelated to its comments on the Iran conflict.
Xinhua News Agency, Berlin, May 3 (Reporter Zhang Yirong, Li Chao) - German Chancellor Merz stated on the 3rd that the recent decision by the United States to reduce its troops stationed in Germany is "unrelated" to his critical remarks about the situation in Iran.
During his appearance on a program on German television on the same day, Merz expressed that he was not surprised by the U.S. government's decision to reduce its troops, saying, "What we have heard in recent days is not entirely new. The situation may indeed have escalated somewhat, but this is not a new trend."
Merz stated that he would not give up cooperation with U.S. President Trump, emphasizing, "For us, the United States remains the most important partner in NATO." He noted that the arrangements regarding nuclear sharing have not diminished in any way, and the U.S. commitment to provide nuclear deterrence in the NATO region remains unchanged.
Merz also mentioned that the "Tomahawk" cruise missiles promised by the U.S. for 2024 will not be deployed in Germany for the time being, as "the Americans currently do not have enough for themselves."
On the 2nd, Trump stated in a media interview that the U.S. plans to significantly reduce the number of American troops stationed in Germany, with the number of withdrawals expected to "far exceed" the 5,000 announced by the Pentagon the day before.
Previously, Trump and Merz had publicly disagreed over the situation in Iran. On April 27, Merz said that the U.S. launched military action against Iran without formulating any strategy, leading to a dilemma and resulting in "humiliation" from the Iranian side. Trump responded on social media, stating that Merz "doesn't know what he is talking about," and later mentioned that the U.S. is considering the possibility of reducing its troops in Germany, with a decision to be made in the near future. German Foreign Minister Maas stated on April 30 that Germany "is prepared for this."
U.S. plans to significantly reduce its troop presence in Germany by over 5,000 personnel, according to statements from President Trump. German Chancellor Merz clarified that this decision is not linked to his recent criticisms regarding U.S. military actions in Iran. He reaffirmed the importance of U.S. support within NATO, while noting that promised Tomahawk missiles will not be deployed in Germany due to current U.S. shortages.
- U.S. plans to reduce troop numbers in Germany by more than 5,000.
- German Chancellor Merz states the reduction is unrelated to his comments on Iran.
- Merz emphasizes the importance of U.S. as a NATO partner.
- Tomahawk missiles promised by the U.S. will not be deployed in Germany due to shortages.
- German Foreign Minister indicates readiness for the troop reduction.