The United States will withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, defense officials confirmed on Sunday. The move comes as European leaders express concern about NATO's defense posture.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the decision "proof Europe needs to take care of its own security." German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the withdrawal sends "the wrong signal to Russia."
The troops are part of the U.S. Army's 2nd Cavalry Regiment based in Vilseck, Bavaria. They will be redeployed to other locations in Europe, according to Pentagon statements.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the alliance remains strong, but acknowledged European members need to increase defense spending. The withdrawal represents about 15% of U.S. forces in Germany.