thomas rowekamp

German Politicians React to US Troop Withdrawal Plan as 'Wake-Up Call'

German political leaders responded to US plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, with Bundestag Defense Committee Chairman Thomas Rowekamp calling it a wake-up call but not a reason for panic. Rowekamp emphasized that security partnerships are not transactional deals and criticized American provocations. He urged Germany to take more responsibility and strengthen its own capabilities, noting Europe must stand on its own feet in security policy. Green Party defense spokesperson Sarah Nanni called for a coordinated European response. About 38,000 US troops are currently stationed in Germany, the largest US contingent in Europe.