Overview
- The Pentagon confirmed plans to remove about 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany and said decisions on units and destinations are still pending.
- Poland, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia and Romania have asked to host more U.S. forces, and President Trump said he might send some to Poland.
- A U.S. defense law passed in 2026 requires the Pentagon to consult allies and report to Congress before keeping Europe’s troop total below 76,000 for more than 45 days.
- Analysts say Poland and Romania have space to absorb more troops with modest upgrades, while the Baltics would need added planning and construction.
- European leaders are boosting their own defenses, with Spain’s foreign minister urging an EU standing force and EU and national spending plans gathering pace.