US President Donald Trump has signalled he may reduce American troop deployments in additional NATO countries, including Spain and Italy, as tensions deepen between Washington and its European allies over the war with Iran.
The remarks follow an earlier move targeting Germany, where the Pentagon confirmed plans to withdraw around 5,000 troops from a total force of approximately 36,000 stationed in the country.
NATO Under Pressure
Trump has increasingly criticised NATO, describing it as a “paper tiger” and accusing member states of failing to support US-led military actions in the Middle East.
When asked whether troop reductions could extend beyond Germany, Trump responded:
“Yeah, probably. Look, why shouldn’t I?”
Germany Responds
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the move was “to be expected”, while stressing that continued military cooperation remains in Germany’s interest.
He also called on European NATO members to “assume greater responsibility”, highlighting Berlin’s ongoing efforts to expand its military capabilities.
Spain And Italy Push Back
Tensions escalated after both Spain and Italy refused to support aspects of the US military campaign against Iran.
- Spain denied access to a naval base near Cadiz and closed its airspace to US aircraft involved in operations
- Italy declined the use of an air base in Sicily
Trump responded sharply:
“Italy has not been of any help to us. And Spain has been horrible, absolutely horrible.”
Broader Strategic Friction
Trump has also criticised European allies over Ukraine, stating:
“We helped them with Ukraine. You know, they made a mess out of Ukraine, a total mess.”
European leaders, however, have pushed back.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez described the war with Iran as “illegal” and “a big mistake”, criticising what he called unilateral US actions without international backing.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warned that the conflict is increasing instability in the Middle East and driving up global energy prices.
A Shifting Alliance Landscape
The developments point to a widening divide within NATO, as:
- The US pushes a more unilateral military strategy
- European allies resist deeper involvement
- Strategic alignment begins to fracture
The potential withdrawal of US troops from multiple European countries raises broader questions about the future cohesion of NATO and the balance of power within the alliance.
As tensions escalate, the alliance faces a critical test of unity at a time of growing global instability.