The United States has initiated a significant military drawdown in northeastern Syria, cutting its troop presence from approximately 2,000 to around 1,400, according to senior U.S. officials cited by the New York Times. The move includes the closure of three out of eight operational bases: M.S.S. Green Village, M.S.S. Euphrates, and a third unnamed smaller base.

Officials stated that the reduction is part of a broader reassessment of the U.S. military’s role in the region, with a 60-day evaluation period underway to determine if further withdrawals are necessary. Commanders on the ground have reportedly recommended retaining a minimum of 500 troops to maintain stability and counter the resurgence of hostile forces.

The reduction follows President Donald Trump’s prior comments describing Syria as “a mess” and questioning the United States’ continued involvement in the country. In January, Trump reportedly considered a full-scale withdrawal of American forces, a move that later prompted the Department of Defense in February to develop a formal plan to remove all U.S. troops from Syria.

The drawdown marks one of the most significant shifts in U.S. military presence in the Middle East in recent years and could have wide-ranging implications for regional security, Kurdish partners, and ongoing counterterrorism efforts. U.S. officials emphasized that the decision remains under active review and may evolve based on ground conditions and strategic objectives.

As the military scales back its footprint in Syria, questions remain about the long-term strategy of the U.S. in addressing regional instability and supporting allied forces. The final troop number is expected to be decided after the 60-day review concludes.