Recent statements by Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz have sparked widespread discussion among politicians and experts in Spain. The controversy erupted after she criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz following his visit to Washington and talks with US President Donald Trump. This situation holds significance for Spain due to possible changes in the balance of power within the European Union and implications for the country’s national interests.
As Politico notes, Díaz expressed dissatisfaction with Merz supporting Trump’s demands to increase military spending in European countries. In her view, such a position from the German Chancellor could undermine the EU’s autonomy and threaten Spain’s interests. She stressed that Europe now needs strong leadership, not following external actors, especially amid economic instability.
Reaction to the White House meeting
During the March 3 meeting in the Oval Office, Trump sharply criticized Spain for insufficient defense spending. Merz, in turn, agreed with the US president and stated that military expenditure should reach 5% of GDP. He also promised to try to persuade Madrid to boost defense funding. This statement drew mixed reactions in both Germany and Spain, where many expected a more restrained approach from the German head of government.
According to Politico, Díaz believes that Merz’s support for Trump’s demands is due to the economic difficulties Germany is facing. She is convinced that such concessions could negatively affect the unity of the European Union and increase pressure on countries that are not ready for a sharp rise in military spending. The Spanish government fears that these actions could lead to new disagreements among European partners.
Intra-European criticism
German commentators have also voiced concern about how Merz responded to Trump’s statements. In their view, the chancellor should have acted with greater caution and not left European allies open to criticism from the US. In Spain, this stance is seen as a signal of potential changes in priorities in EU–US relations, which could impact Madrid’s strategic decisions.
The situation surrounding the Merz–Trump meeting has also been discussed by Spanish experts. Many point out that such episodes could prompt Spain to reconsider its positions on defense and foreign policy. Significantly, this is taking place against the background of already existing disagreements within the EU regarding the distribution of military spending and the US role in European security.
Context and consequences
According to Politico, Merz and Trump spoke with journalists at the White House for about 35 minutes, with the American president taking up most of the conversation. This was Merz’s third visit to the United States since he became chancellor in May 2025. The frequency of his contacts with Washington has raised questions among European partners about the priorities of German foreign policy.
In Spain, debate continues over whether meeting US demands to increase military spending is justified. According to russpain.com, such decisions could add extra strain to the budget and spark disputes within the coalition government. It’s important to note that Madrid has previously advocated for diplomatic solutions to conflicts, as seen in other instances, such as when Pedro Sánchez insisted on peaceful resolution of international disputes.
In recent years, defense spending and relations with the US have repeatedly become topics of heated debate in Europe. After the leadership change in Germany and growing pressure from Washington, many EU countries have faced a choice between preserving their independence and the need to strengthen military cooperation. Spain traditionally upholds a balance of interests and the unity of the European Union, which is especially relevant in the face of new challenges and instability in global politics.
