US NATO allies believe that Washington will not stop at withdrawing 5,000 troops from Germany and will further reduce its military presence in Europe.
Bloomberg reports, citing anonymous sources, that US President Donald Trump may also pull troops from Italy. Plans to deploy long-range weapons in Germany could be scrapped, and a reduction in military presence in Spain is not ruled out.
Other possible scenarios include Washington's refusal to participate in some NATO exercises and the relocation of troops from countries causing discontent to more loyal states.
Trump's frustration with NATO has deepened long-standing tensions with European leaders. On April 29, the US president said he was considering reducing the contingent in Germany but did not explain why. The move came after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized US military operations against Iran.
On May 1, the Pentagon announced that 5,000 US troops would be withdrawn from Germany. The withdrawal is expected to be completed within the next 6-12 months.
