The US is a vital partner for Europe's security, but the deployment of American troops is also in the US interest, European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper said on Thursday, UNN reports, citing The Guardian.
Details
"The deployment of US troops in Europe is also in the US interest to maintain its global role," said Anitta Hipper, the European Commission's lead spokesperson for security and foreign policy, during a briefing in Brussels.
She added that the US is the "most important partner in contributing to the security and defense of Europe."
Hipper also noted that Germany and other European NATO allies are "increasing their defense spending at an unprecedented pace."
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, for his part, stated that the country is "ready" for any reduction in the number of US troops, AFP reports, after US President Donald Trump threatened such a move in a dispute with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
"We are ready for this," said Johann Wadephul when asked about the issue during a visit to Morocco.
"We are discussing this issue carefully and in a spirit of trust within all NATO bodies, and we expect decisions from the Americans on this matter," he noted.
Recall
The day before, Trump threatened to reduce US troops in Germany amid a conflict with Merz.
On April 27, Merz criticized US policy toward Iran, stating there was a lack of a clear strategy from Washington and noting that the Iranian leadership was "humiliating" the US during negotiations.
Trump responded to Merz's position on Iran, stating that "he doesn't know what he's talking about."
Following Trump's threats, Merz changed his tone and called for a "reliable transatlantic partnership."