Ankara: Germany's defense minister stated that a planned US troop withdrawal from Europe was 'foreseeable,' as transatlantic tensions grow over Washington's military actions concerning Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, Boris Pistorius indicated that the United States' reduction of its military presence, including the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 troops from Germany, was expected. This move is occurring amidst strained relations between Washington and key European allies over the ongoing conflict with Iran.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed that Iran is 'humiliating' the United States in negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict. In light of these developments, Pistorius emphasized the need for Europe to take on more responsibility for its defense. He mentioned that Germany is progressing in enhancing its armed forces and speeding up procurement processes.
Pistorius also assured that Berlin would maintain close coordination with allies, particularly Britain, France, Poland, and Italy, to ensure regional security and stability.