A debate has reignited in Washington over Spain’s participation in NATO military spending. While in the White House, Donald Trump made it clear that U.S. patience is running thin: Madrid is in no hurry to increase its defense budget to 5% of GDP, as required by the alliance’s new standards. The American president has not concealed his irritation and has hinted at possible economic sanctions against Spanish goods.
During a meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei, Trump stopped short of repeating his threat to expel Spain from NATO, but made it clear he considers Madrid’s position selfish and unfair to other allies. According to him, Spain remains the only country that has not agreed to raise its military spending, even though the rest of the alliance’s members have already taken on new commitments. Trump stressed that Madrid enjoys NATO protection without contributing its fair share, which he finds deeply unsatisfactory.
The American leader pointed out that Spain’s geographic location guarantees it automatic protection, even if some allies would prefer otherwise. According to Trump, such a situation seems absurd and unjust to other NATO members. He believes Madrid’s actions undermine the alliance’s unity and show a lack of respect for collective security.
The escalation of tensions between the countries has coincided with the Spanish government’s tougher stance on arms supplies to Israel, a move that has also drawn attention in Washington. Amid these disagreements, Trump has once again raised the issue of pressuring Madrid to review its defense policy priorities. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, in turn, stated that he has no intention of making concessions and considers his stance on military spending justified, citing economic successes and a commitment to social policy.
Despite attempts by Spanish authorities to present dialogue with the US as constructive, Trump continues to insist on introducing trade restrictions. He has used the threat of tariffs as a pressure tool before, and now he is revisiting this idea. The European Commission previously reached agreements with the US on trade matters, but the American president could reconsider these arrangements if he decides to penalize Madrid for failing to meet new NATO standards. In the past, similar measures have affected certain sectors of the Spanish economy, and the situation may repeat itself now.
