politics
Trump Considers Reducing US Troops in Europe
President Trump threatened to pull U.S. troops from Italy and Spain after criticizing their lack of support in the Iran conflict, following a similar warning to Germany. The statements came as the 60-day War Powers Resolution deadline arrived for congressional approval of the ongoing military operations in Iran.
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President Trump said he "probably will" pull U.S. troops from Italy and Spain if they do not increase assistance in the conflict with Iran, according to statements he made during an Oval Office event on Thursday. He described Italy's contributions as "nonexistent" and Spain's as "horrible," and separately indicated the U.S. is studying troop cuts in Germany following comments from Chancellor Friedrich Merz that the U.S. was being "humiliated" by Iran.
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These remarks came amid ongoing tensions with NATO allies over their naval deployments to the Strait of Hormuz, which remains blockaded in the conflict.
Friday marked the 60th day since the U.S. initiated military operations in Iran, activating the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which requires congressional authorization for continued hostilities beyond that period. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth argued during congressional hearings that a ceasefire has "terminated" hostilities, effectively stopping the 60-day clock, according to statements reported by Reuters and The New York Times.
Hegseth testified before the House and Senate Armed Services Committees to justify a $1.5 trillion defense budget request for the upcoming fiscal year, representing a 40% increase from the previous year. He cited needs for military modernization and operations, including those in Iran, where costs have reached $23 billion to date based on Pentagon figures.
Nonpartisan estimates place daily expenditures at approximately $1 billion.
In his testimony, Hegseth stated that Iran's nuclear facilities "have been obliterated" and are under "constant surveillance," emphasizing the objective of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He referenced avoiding a "hasty withdrawal" similar to the Biden administration's exit from Afghanistan.
