Washington: US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that the United States intends to reduce its military presence in Germany by a far greater number than the previously announced 5,000 troops. Speaking to reporters in South Florida as he boarded Air Force One, Trump declared, "We're going to cut way down and we're cutting a lot further than 5,000."

This announcement follows plans by the Pentagon to withdraw approximately 5,000 US troops from Germany, a decision that underscores increasing tensions between the US and some of its key European allies, particularly over the ongoing military operations in Iran, as reported by CBS News.

The decision to reduce the US military footprint in Germany comes amid frustration within the Trump administration with European governments, especially Germany, for what it views as insufficient support in military operations involving Iran.

ALSO READ | Why 68,000 US troops across Europe as Washington plans Germany withdrawal

Trump had previously voiced his displeasure with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other NATO leaders for not offering more substantial backing for US military actions in the region. According to the report, Trump has been vocal in criticising Merz for failing to take a more active role in supporting the US's stance on Iran.

In a separate comment on Thursday, Trump said that Merz was "doing a terrible job" in handling domestic issues in Germany. Speaking at an executive order signing event in the Oval Office, Trump remarked, "He's got immigration and energy problems, and a problem with Ukraine. He criticised me for Iran, so I asked him, 'Would you like Iran to have a nuclear weapon?' He said no. I said, 'Well then, I guess I'm right.'"

On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump made similar comments, urging Merz to focus on Germany's issues, particularly the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and to stop interfering with countries working to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Trump also suggested the possibility of reducing American military personnel stationed in Italy and Spain, sharply criticising both nations' positions on the Iran conflict. This comes as part of a broader diplomatic rift between Washington and its long-standing European allies, which continues to widen amid the ongoing tensions.

ALSO READ | US toying with idea of firing Dark Eagle, $41 million hypersonic missile, on Iran, but should it?

The planned military withdrawal, which will see US troops leaving Germany, highlights the growing divide between the Trump administration and key NATO members over foreign policy and military strategy, particularly concerning the Middle East.