Germany calls US key Nato partner amid tensions

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the United States remains Germany’s “most important partner in the North Atlantic Alliance”, in a post on X, as Germany seeks to ease tensions following plans to withdraw US troops.

His remarks come after Washington announced a reduction of about 5,000 troops from Germany.

The move, ordered by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, has been seen as a response to disagreements over the war involving Iran.

Merz had earlier criticised Tehran’s stance in negotiations, prompting a sharp response from President Donald Trump, who threatened the troop reduction.

The United States is and will remain Germany‘s most important partner in the North Atlantic Alliance. We share a common goal: Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons.

— Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (@bundeskanzler) May 3, 2026