Introduction 1- German Minister: US troop withdrawal confirms the need for Europeans to take responsibility for their own security

To add quotes and background

BERLIN, May 2 (Reuters) - German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said on Saturday, in response to the announcement of plans to withdraw 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, that Europeans must play a greater role in their own security.

Pistorius said that "Germany is on the right track" in this regard, pointing to the strengthening of its armed forces (the Bundeswehr) and the increase and acceleration of military equipment purchases, along with the strengthening of infrastructure.

The US Department of Defense (Pentagon) announced on Friday that the United States will withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, a member of NATO.

Pistorius estimated the current number of US troops stationed in Germany at "approximately 40,000".

In response to sharp criticism from Washington regarding defense spending, European NATO member states, including Germany, pledged to take on more responsibility for their own security.

But with limited budgets and wide gaps in military capabilities, it will take years for the region to be able to meet its security needs.

Pistorius said, "The presence of American troops in Europe, and especially in Germany, is in our interest and the interest of the United States."

But he went on to say, "It was expected that the United States would withdraw its forces from Europe, including Germany."


This page is machine-translated. Sahm tries to improve but does not guarantee the accuracy and reliability of the translation, and will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by any inaccuracy or omission of the translation. *Disclaimer: The above content only represents the author's personal position and opinion and does not represent any position of Sahm Capital Financial Company and Sahm cannot confirm the authenticity, accuracy, and originality of the above content. Investors should consider the risks of investment products in light of their circumstances before making any investment decisions. When necessary, please consult a professional investment advisor. Sahm does not provide any investment advice, nor does it make any commitments and guarantees.