May 2 (UPI) -- The Pentagon announced Friday that the United States would draw down 5,000 troops from Germany, and Germany responded Saturday that the move was anticipated.
The decision came after Chancellor Friederick Merz made comments criticizing the war with Iran, saying the United States has been "humiliated" by the war.
"The Secretary of War has ordered the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 troops from Germany," Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a statement. "This decision follows a thorough review of the Department's force posture in Europe and is in recognition of theater requirements and conditions on the ground. We expect the withdrawal to be completed over the next six to 12 months."
President Donald Trump lashed out at Germany on Truth Social Thursday after Merz made the comments.
"The Chancellor of Germany should spend more time on ending the war with Russia/Ukraine (Where he has been totally ineffective!), and fixing his broken Country, especially Immigration and Energy, and less time on interfering with those that are getting rid of the Iran Nuclear threat, thereby making the World, including Germany, a safer place!" the president said.
