Germany cuts may just be the beginning
Outgoing US Ambassador to Germany Richard Grennel finally tackled US troop cut announcement for Germany, saying it is in keeping with Trump’s position, and that he also wants cuts in Japan and South Korea.
Grennel said he doesn’t think this sends a wrong signal because its been Trump’s position all along that the deployments cost the US too much.
In addressing South Korea, it is likely the administration is trying to scare yet more money out of them after months of failed negotiations. Trump was always expected to seek more money from Germany, but was unlikely to get it.
Polls have showed that while German politicians are somewhat split, voters much preferred a US pullout to more military spending. Die Linke MPs enthusiastically said the US cuts could save money.
South Korea has already offered a substantial increase, but are far from Trump’s unprecedented demands. Japan is also expected to oppose massive new demands from the US.