CDU foreign policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter suggested that the recently announced partial withdrawal of US troops from Germany could constitute a potential targeted “action against Germany”. Speaking to the news portal T-Online on Saturday, Kiesewetter elaborated that the interpretation hinges entirely on the eventual destination of these troops. He stated that if the units remained within Europe, it would be viewed as an action against Germany, whereas if they were stationed outside the continent, the withdrawal would possess a more strategic background.
Kiesewetter also offered advice for the German political class, advising against exaggerating the intentions of Donald Trump, noting that the outcome has been predictable for a long time. He urged people to remain calm and cautioned against making public statements that could give the former US President any incentive to take impulsive actions.
According to Kiesewetter, the most critical task for Europe remains rebuilding its own “relevance” in the eyes of the US by implementing a fair sharing of burdens for the continent. Furthermore, integrating Ukraine into Europe’s security architecture is essential, as this is the means by which the “free Europe” can achieve victory over Russia in Ukraine. He pointed out that the US currently supports Russian narratives even against Germany.
The far-right AfD criticized the federal government harshly in reaction to the troop withdrawal. Markus Frohnmaier, the AfD’s foreign policy spokesperson in the Bundestag, told T-Online that the current administration, led by Christian Lindner, has significantly undermined Germany by effectively giving away nearly €100 billion in military capabilities and financial aid to Ukraine, a move that has seriously damaged the country.
Frohnmaier argued that the announced US troop withdrawal demonstrates a clear message: the Americans intend to make both Germany and Europe understand that security policy is not a one-way street. He insisted that Germany’s focus must shift to rebuilding its own economic and military strength rather than depending on foreign powers permanently.
He concluded by criticizing Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (both CDU) for failing to demonstrate any diplomatic skill to date. While acknowledging that the Americans remain “decisive partners” and still rely on their military structures within Germany, Frohnmaier demanded that the federal government finally fulfill its duty and actively represent German interests.