The US Army removed guidance directing soldiers to food banks during the government shutdown after Euronews reported it. Soldiers await mid-November pay.
The US Army removed website guidance directing soldiers to food banks and food-sharing facilities during the government shutdown after Euronews first reported the case, which caused social media controversy.
US military publication Stars and Stripes published a US Army Europe and Africa statement explaining that "the list of local food assistance offers was created several weeks ago when the US Army was concerned that its German personnel might not receive pay during the shutdown, which could make them temporarily dependent on aid."
The army claimed the advice was meant for civilian employees rather than soldiers, though the website section heading referenced "kit bags," a military term. The guidance can still be seen in archived versions after it was removed from the active site.
US soldiers continue awaiting mid-November salary payments as the most extended shutdown in US history persists. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CBS News that "as of 15 November, soldiers who are willing to risk their lives will no longer be able to receive a paycheck."
October salary payments came from multiple sources: $2.5 billion from summer tax cut legislation, $1.4 billion from military procurement accounts and $1.4 billion from research and development, according to US media reports.
Blue Star Families, a military-founded initiative, warned at the beginning of October that "less than one in three military families have savings of $3,000."
Meanwhile, Senate Democrats are using momentum from recent electoral victories — including New York City's mayoral race and gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia — to pressure Republican colleagues toward a budget compromise, according to US media reports.
Democrats and Republicans have been fiercely debating over the budget since 1 October. Although Republicans control both the Senate and the House of Representatives, they require Democratic votes to resolve the impasse.
The shutdown eliminated salaries for civil servants or placed them on compulsory leave. The German government temporarily stepped in financially to pay civilian US military employees in Germany.
US military personnel receive pay fortnightly, which can intensify financial pressure during payment gaps. Approximately 37,000 US soldiers stationed in Germany, including those at Ramstein Air Base and Bavarian garrisons, face continued uncertainty about November wages as congressional negotiations continue.