Lawmakers Say Reducing US Troops in Germany “Undermines Alliances, European Security”

By Staff, Agencies

US lawmakers on Wednesday criticized President Donald Trump's decision to reduce the number of American troops in Germany, considering it undermines the United States' alliance with the European country and the overall security in Europe.

Earlier in the day, US War Secretary Mark Esper announced that the US plans to withdraw 11,900 military personnel from Germany and deploy them to other locations. This would reduce the number of troops stationed in Germany from 36,000 to 24,000.

"Threatening to withdraw the US military presence from a region after demanding payments is a perfect example of policy that may appear to put America First, while in reality it strains our relationships with partners and allies and undermines our national security," US House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith.

Smith called on Congress to fully assess Trump's decision and take any action necessary to ensure that the changes in the United States’ posture in Europe do not create additional risk for US national security.

Meanwhile, Republican Senator Mitt Romney said in a statement that the decision to reduce the number of US forces in Germany is a grave error, describing it as a slap on the face of a friend and ally when Washington should be showing a growing commitment to counter Russia and China.

Romney added that the decision will result in long-term harmful consequences for US interests.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Bob Menendez called on the Senate to block Trump's decision.

Menendez also considered that the Trump administration's decision will weaken US efforts to counter Russia in eastern Europe. In addition, Menendez said US forces in Germany play an essential role for US security interests throughout the Middle East and Africa.