The United States plans to pull about 5,000 troops out of Germany within the next year, the Pentagon said on Friday.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the move after a review of US military presence in Europe, officials said.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the withdrawal is expected to take six to twelve months and reflects changing needs on the ground.
The decision comes after President Donald Trump raised the possibility of reducing troops in Europe amid tensions with Germany.
Trump has criticised German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over his stance on the Iran conflict and has also warned of possible troop cuts in other European countries.
Germany said it is prepared for a possible reduction but stressed the importance of key US bases, including Ramstein Air Base.
European officials said the presence of US forces remains important for regional security, while Washington has long called on its allies to take on a greater role in defence.
Officials said discussions between the US and its allies are ongoing as the plan moves forward.
