Trump Orders Review to Cut Up to 40,000 European Troops

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have initiated a six-month review of the U.S. military footprint in Europe, considering a drawdown of 25,000 to 40,000 troops. This potential reduction, which would represent one-third to one-half of the current force, would be the most significant scaling back since the 1990s. The review primarily targets hubs in Germany, Italy, and Spain, following disputes over defense spending and the refusal of European allies to grant airbase access for the war on Iran.

To offset these withdrawals, Trump announced plans to develop a large military presence in Greenland and reported progress on a dedicated U.S. Army base in Poland. The shift aligns with a National Security Strategy authored by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which criticizes European Union activities and the stability of European minority governments. While some U.S. officials warn that a rapid withdrawal could undermine NATO's ability to deter Russian aggression, Hegseth has argued that European allies must take primary responsibility for their own defense.

General Alexus Grynkewich of US European Command is providing the initial analysis of force requirements. A final recommendation is due to Hegseth by November 6. Internal friction has marked the process, with reports that Rubio intervened in June to manage how NATO allies were briefed on the potential troop reductions.