May 02, Kathmandu - The U.S. Department of Defense is reportedly considering a plan to withdraw approximately 5,000 American soldiers from Germany, signaling potential strains in US-Europe relations.

According to details released on Friday, a senior defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the plan is currently under review. The move comes amid recent diplomatic tensions following German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's remarks on U.S. military activities related to Iran, which the U.S. perceives as uncooperative and inappropriate.

Scholz previously criticized U.S. military engagement with Iran, calling it "planless" and accused the U.S. of being "humiliated" by Iranian leadership. These comments have reportedly escalated diplomatic friction between the two nations.

In response, U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized Germany’s leadership, stating that Scholz's comments show a lack of understanding. Trump also accused Germany of not taking Iran’s nuclear ambitions seriously and hinted at reducing the number of U.S. troops stationed in Germany.

On social media, Trump suggested that the troop presence in Germany might be scaled back soon, with decisions expected "in the near future." He also indicated that U.S. military presence could be reduced in Spain and Italy. Criticizing European allies, Trump argued that they have not provided adequate support in the ongoing conflicts involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

Germany’s Foreign Minister, Olaf Wäderful, stated that the country is prepared for potential troop reductions, viewing such measures as contingent on evolving circumstances.

Currently, over 36,000 U.S. active-duty soldiers are stationed in Germany, along with approximately 1,500 reservists and 11,500 civilian personnel. Germany hosts the headquarters for the U.S. European Command and Africa Command, with Ramstein Air Base serving as a critical center for American military operations in Europe.