The proposed drawdown could reach 40,000 troops as Washington reviews its military presence across Europe.
WEB DESK: The Pentagon is considering withdrawing at least 25,000 US troops from Europe as part of a broader review of the American military presence on the continent, NBC News reported.
The proposed reduction could reach as many as 40,000 troops, according to current and former US and Western officials cited by NBC. Around 80,000 US troops are currently stationed in Europe.
No final decision has been made on the possible drawdown.
Germany, Italy and Spain Could Be Affected
Germany, Italy and Spain, which host some of the largest US military deployments in Europe, are among the countries that could be affected by the proposed changes.
The review is examining more than troop numbers. Options reportedly include changes involving aviation, naval forces, ground units and the possible repositioning of some US forces toward NATO’s eastern flank.
Pentagon Conducting Six-Month Review
The possible reductions are part of a six-month Pentagon review of the US military posture in Europe.
Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, commander of US European Command and NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, is expected to provide an initial assessment to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.
According to the report, Hegseth is expected to receive a final recommendation on November 6 before any proposal is presented to President Donald Trump.
Concerns Among NATO Allies
The possible reduction has raised concerns among some European governments and US lawmakers, who have warned that a rapid change in the American military presence could affect NATO’s defence posture.
At the same time, the Trump administration has argued that European allies should assume greater responsibility for their conventional defence while the United States reallocates military resources toward other regions.
Reuters reported separately that Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen has urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to ensure US diplomats are involved in the Pentagon’s Europe force review, citing the potential diplomatic consequences for NATO allies.
The Pentagon review remains ongoing, and the reported troop reductions are options under consideration rather than a final US government decision.
