Germany says it is ready for possible U.S. troop drawdown

Germany declared Wednesday it is prepared for a potential reduction in U.S. forces stationed on its soil, as a diplomatic dispute over Iran's nuclear negotiations strained ties between Berlin and Washington.

The standoff highlights deepening fractures within NATO as the Trump administration publicly challenges European partners over security commitments, raising questions about the reliability of long-standing U.S. defense guarantees on the continent.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, speaking during a diplomatic visit to Morocco, said the prospect of a U.S. troop reduction is not a new message and has been raised by previous American administrations, according to The Korea Times.

"We are prepared for that, we are discussing it closely and in a spirit of trust in all NATO bodies, and we are expecting decisions from the Americans about this," Wadephul said.

The foreign minister emphasized that major American military installations on German soil remain vital to both nations. He said Ramstein Air Base serves "an irreplaceable function for the United States and for us alike," making clear that large American bases are not up for discussion.

The dispute erupted after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz publicly accused Iran of humiliating Washington at the nuclear negotiating table. President Donald Trump pushed back, accusing Merz of believing it is acceptable for Iran to possess nuclear weapons, The Korea Times reported. Trump subsequently threatened to redeploy troops currently based in Germany via posts on Truth Social.

Merz sought to steady the alliance, saying, "This transatlantic partnership is particularly close to our hearts — both to us as a whole and to me personally, as you know."

Tens of thousands of U.S. troops are currently stationed in Germany, making it one of the largest American military presences in Europe.

Wadephul indicated Berlin will await formal decisions from Washington before adjusting its defense posture, while underscoring Germany's commitment to a united NATO and a reliable transatlantic partnership.