US Weighs Withdrawal of Up to 40,000 Troops From Europe
The Pentagon is considering withdrawing 25,000 to 40,000 US troops from Europe as Washington reviews its military role within NATO.
The Pentagon is considering a major reduction in the US military presence in Europe, with plans reportedly ranging from about 25,000 to as many as 40,000 troops. Around 80,000 US service members are currently stationed across Europe, meaning the larger option could cut the American presence by roughly half. No final decision has been made.
The possible drawdown is part of a six-month Pentagon review ordered to assess whether the current US force posture in Europe aligns with the Trump administration’s priorities. Options reportedly include reducing ground, air and naval forces, as well as shifting some American units towards NATO’s eastern flank.
General Alexus Grynkewich, who heads US European Command and serves as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, is expected to submit an initial assessment to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. A final recommendation is expected on November 6, after which it would go to President Donald Trump.
The review comes as the Trump administration has pressed European NATO members to assume greater responsibility for conventional defence, while arguing that the US should allocate more military resources to other regions.
Germany, Italy and Spain could be among the countries affected because they host substantial US military deployments. The prospect of a significant reduction has raised concerns among some European governments and US lawmakers about the potential impact on NATO’s deterrence posture amid continuing tensions with Russia.
The final scale and location of any troop movement remain undecided, with the Pentagon still evaluating multiple options.
