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Europe pushes back after Trump threat over US troops

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Anthony Howard
May 2, 2026

Donald Trump fired back after the German chancellor criticized his Iran strategy, saying he would withdraw US troops. Europe is weighing up taking a tougher line on Trump.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faced a backlash from Donald Trump after voicing doubts about the war in Iran. The US president responded with sharp criticism, reviving a threat to withdraw US troops from Germany.

The debate has highlighted a broader shift in Europe, as leaders move away from appeasing Trump and speak more openly. Experts discuss the risks for European security, NATO ties and how dependent Europe still is on the United States.

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