Trump says he will probably pull US troops from Italy and Spainpull US troops from Italy and Spain
US President Donald Trump stated on April 30 that he would 'probably' withdraw American troops from Italy and Spain. He criticized both nations for not supporting US operations in the war against Iran, particularly in reopening the Strait of Hormuz closed since late February. This follows his announcement of potential cuts to US forces in Germany.
Trump's threats heighten tensions within NATO, as allies like Italy and Spain have opposed the Iran war and refused base access or naval aid. A possible troop shift to eastern allies like Poland could weaken transatlantic unity and alter Europe's security landscape amid the ongoing conflict.
US Administration
Trump views Italy and Spain as unhelpful allies that failed to send navies to the Strait of Hormuz or allow base use for Iran strikes. He sees troop withdrawals as fair punishment for their lack of support in the US-Israeli air war. This fits his push to reduce US commitments to underperforming NATO partners.
European Allies
Italy's defense minister rejected Trump's accusations and affirmed Rome's contributions to the US. Spain faced prior threats of trade embargoes over base refusals linked to Iran operations. Leaders warn that such moves risk splitting NATO at a critical time.
NATO Leadership
Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated NATO stands ready to assist the US in the Strait of Hormuz. He downplayed European opposition to the Iran war and stressed allies are meeting Trump's requests to bolster the alliance. Rutte aims to prevent divisions from troop threats.
- Italy hosts about 12,000 US troops at key bases like Aviano Air Base in the Veneto region.
- Spain's Rota Naval Station supports US ballistic missile submarines in the Strait of Gibraltar.
- Mark Rutte navigated Dutch coalitions as prime minister from 2010 to 2024 before NATO.
US-Iran Ceasefire War
The United States launched military strikes against Iran on June 26, 2026, in response to a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "foolish violation" of the 60-day ceasefire agreement signed just days earlier[2][4][14].
26 June, 09:35 PM
US launches strikes against Iran following commercial ship attack26 June, 04:47 PM
Trump calls Iran drone attack on cargo ship a ceasefire violation
