Trump is considering reducing US troops in Italy and Spain
US President Donald Trump stated that he is seriously considering a major decision to reduce the number of American troops stationed in both Italy and Spain. This unexpected move comes against the backdrop of the two European countries' opposition to US policies and military actions related to the Iranian issue. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, when asked about the possibility of withdrawing or reducing troop numbers, Trump replied unequivocally: "Yes, I'll probably do that. Why not?" He added, criticizing the allies' stances: "Italy hasn't helped us at all, and Spain has been absolutely terrible."
The historical context of the military presence and the reduction of US forces
The American military presence in Europe dates back to the post-World War II era and the beginning of the Cold War, when Washington established a network of military bases to protect its NATO allies from Soviet expansion. Over the decades, these bases in countries such as Germany, Italy, and Spain have become vital strategic hubs for managing American military and logistical operations directed toward the Middle East and Africa.
As of December 31, 2025, data indicates that the number of US troops deployed in Italy was 12,662, in Spain 3,814, while Germany hosted the largest number with 36,436 troops. Threatening to reduce the military presence is not new in Trump's rhetoric; he repeatedly threatened during his previous terms to reduce troop numbers in Germany and other European countries as part of his ongoing pressure and criticism of NATO, demanding that allies shoulder a greater financial burden in defense budgets.
European positions on escalation with Iran vary
The Iranian issue has become a major point of contention between Washington and some of its European allies. Trump recently announced that his administration is also considering reducing the number of troops in Germany, amid sharp disagreements with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over how to deal with Iranian threats and the possibility of war. The rift extends to Italy, where Trump told the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera earlier this month that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni lacks the "courage" to take a firm stance on war with Iran.
The matter didn't stop at media statements; it extended to leaks and reports that emerged last week indicating that the United States was considering suspending Spain's membership in NATO. This unprecedented threat stems from Madrid's outright refusal to support any potential military operations against Iran, reflecting the deep divisions within the Western alliance.
The strategic implications of reducing the military presence
Any US decision to withdraw or reduce troops from Europe would have far-reaching strategic implications. Regionally, this trend is causing considerable concern within NATO, as it is seen as weakening Western military deterrence in the face of growing threats and creating security uncertainty on the continent.
On the international level, implementing this reduction could be interpreted as a retreat from traditional US security commitments, potentially encouraging regional powers, including Iran, to expand their influence and exploit the resulting security vacuum. It also compels European countries to accelerate their plans for building a unified European strategic and defense autonomy, independent of the US security umbrella upon which they have relied for decades to ensure their stability.
