00:00German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says the U.S. remains Germany's most important partner within NATO,
00:07despite rising tensions over the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
00:11His remarks follow U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to significantly reduce American troops in Germany
00:18after a dispute over Washington's strategy in the Iran conflict.
00:23Merz also confirmed that the U.S. will not station Tomahawk cruise missiles in Germany for now.
00:30However, he stressed the decision is not linked to his criticism of Trump.
00:34The German leader had earlier criticised Trump for lacking a clear exit strategy in its war against Iran
00:40and said it faced humiliation during negotiations with the Iranian government.
00:46In response, Trump said the planned troop reduction would exceed 5,000.
00:52Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Johan Wadepul said Germany is prepared for the withdrawal
00:56and is coordinating closely with NATO on the next steps.
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