US Withdraws 5,000 Troops from Germany

Democrats in Congress criticized the withdrawal, arguing it weakens U.S. security interests and benefits Russian President Vladimir Putin. Senator Jack Reed, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the move suggests American commitments to allies depend on the president's mood.

Reed urged Trump to cease the action to avoid irreversible consequences for alliances and national security. This marks the first Republican senator to shift position on curtailing Trump's military authority in the conflict, which began February 28 with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Tehran.

Trump stated that Iran wants a deal but he is not satisfied, noting negotiations are occurring by phone. He expressed uncertainty about reaching an agreement and emphasized the U.S. will not leave early to avoid recurring problems. In a post on Truth Social, Trump shared a picture of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries with a caption calling him a thug and a danger to the country.

On trade, Trump announced he will increase tariffs on European Union cars and trucks to 25% next week, up from the current 15% level under a deal negotiated last July. He cited the EU's non-compliance with trade agreements. This move comes amid broader U.S. efforts to secure allied assistance in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, blocked by Iran.

The Iran war has caused oil price shocks, with U.S. gasoline prices rising to $4.24 per gallon in April from $3.03 in February, according to Energy Information Administration data. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz removed about 10 million barrels per day from global supply, affecting prices worldwide despite U.S. oil production.

Analysts note the U.S. economy consumes more oil per unit of GDP than China, Russia, or the EU, making it more vulnerable to such disruptions. Trump sent letters to Congress explaining that a ceasefire means he does not need authorization for military operations in Iran, despite the war reaching the 60-day mark.

Legal scholars described this interpretation as not credible. The administration has launched efforts to gain allied help in securing the Strait of Hormuz.

“The withdrawal suggests American commitments to our allies are dependent on the president’s mood.”

NATO allies have prepared for potential U.S. troop reductions since Trump's inauguration last year, following warnings that Europe must handle its own security. The U.S. stations 80,000 to 100,000 personnel in Europe, depending on operations. The troop withdrawal could have consequences amid global instability, though sources differ on the extent.

In a separate development, Trump eased tariffs on U.K. whiskey after meeting with King Charles III. Foreign investment in California rose 4% last year despite trade disruptions, with Japan leading. These elements highlight ongoing U.S. trade and diplomatic adjustments amid the Iran conflict.