Source: Fox News
Summary
President Donald Trump threatened to end U.S. trade with Spain after criticizing the NATO ally for refusing to commit to the alliance’s new defense spending target. Trump called Spain a “wasted cause” and urged an end to trade with the country. Spain was the lone member of the alliance to publicly reject committing to the full target. Trump argued Spain has benefited from the alliance while failing to contribute its fair share. The remarks represent an escalation of Trump’s longstanding criticism of NATO allies that spend less on defense.
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As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Trump’s comments came after NATO leaders backed a new defense spending benchmark calling on allies to invest 5% of gross domestic product in defense and defense-related expenditures. He argued Spain has benefited from the alliance while failing to contribute its fair share. Trump’s criticism of Spain also comes after months of growing friction between Washington and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez over national security and foreign policy. The U.S. and Spain maintain a significant trading relationship, with the two countries trading roughly $47 billion in goods in 2025. Trump’s remarks were met with no immediate response from the Spanish embassy or the White House.
Trump’s performance at the NATO summit has become a familiar ritual.
Author: Evan Null
