The Pentagon has confirmed that about 5,000 U.S. troops will leave Germany in the next six to twelve months. There are now around 36,000 American soldiers in Germany, so this is about 14% of the total. The decision comes after President Trump called for a smaller military presence in Germany.

This move follows increased tensions between the U.S. and Germany about military strategy. The withdrawal will include taking away a combat team and stopping a planned deployment. Some troops will return to the U.S., while others might move to the Indo-Pacific region.

Germany is important for U.S. military operations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and important bases will continue to work. However, this change means there will be fewer American troops in Germany than before. NATO allies and U.S. lawmakers have shown concern about the effects on regional security.