The Pentagon is considering withdrawing at least 25,000 US troops from Europe, with a possible drawdown of up to 40,000, NBC News reported on Thursday, citing current and former US and Western officials familiar with the deliberations.
The move could reduce the roughly 80,000 US troops currently stationed in Europe by about 31 percent, and potentially by half.
No final decision has been made, and the options remain part of an ongoing Pentagon review.
Germany, Italy and Spain, which host some of the largest US military deployments in Europe, could be among the countries affected.
Pentagon reviews troop and force posture
The six-month review is examining options involving US ground, air and naval forces, as well as possible repositioning of some troops towards NATO’s eastern flank.
General Alexus Grynkewich, who heads US European Command and serves as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, is expected to provide an initial assessment to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday.
Hegseth is expected to receive a final recommendation on November 6 before any proposal is presented to President Donald Trump, according to NBC News.
The review was launched in June as the Trump administration pushes European allies to assume greater responsibility for conventional defence within NATO.
Pentagon documents reviewed by Reuters previously showed that the process would produce at least four force-disposition options for Hegseth by November 6.
Allies raise concerns over possible drawdown
The prospect of a large-scale reduction has raised concerns among some US lawmakers and European governments, which have warned that a rapid withdrawal could affect NATO's ability to deter Russia.
Senator Jeanne Shaheen has separately urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to ensure US diplomats are fully involved in the review, arguing that changes to troop deployments could have broader diplomatic and security implications.
The State Department says its officials are participating in the process.
NBC News also reported disagreements between the State Department and Pentagon over the review. Rubio reportedly intervened in June after the Pentagon prepared to brief NATO defence ministers on potential large-scale reductions.
The review does not necessarily mean all proposed reductions would be implemented.
The Pentagon has said it is developing a range of options as Washington seeks to adjust its military posture and encourage European allies to take a larger role in the continent’s defence.
