The debate over Spain’s contribution to NATO military spending has reignited in Washington. During his time at the White House, Donald Trump made it clear that U.S. patience is wearing 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 is openly irritated and hints at possible economic sanctions against Spanish goods.
During a meeting with President of Argentina Javier Milei, Trump did not repeat the threat to expel Spain from NATO, but made it clear that he considers Madrid’s position selfish and unfair to other allies. According to him, Spain remains the only country that has not agreed to increase its military spending, although the other alliance members have already accepted new commitments. Trump stressed that Madrid benefits from NATO’s protection without making an equal contribution, which causes him strong dissatisfaction.
The American leader pointed out that Spain’s geographic location provides it with automatic protection, even if some allies are unwilling. In Trump’s view, this situation appears absurd and unfair to other alliance members. He believes Madrid’s actions undermine NATO unity and show a lack of respect for collective security.
The escalation in relations between the countries coincided with the Spanish government’s tougher stance on arms supplies to Israel, which has not gone unnoticed in Washington. Against this backdrop of disagreements, Trump has once again raised the need to pressure Madrid to reconsider its defense policy priorities. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, in turn, stated that he has no intention of making concessions and considers his position on military spending justified, citing economic success and a commitment to social policy.
Despite attempts by Spanish authorities to present the dialogue with the US as constructive, Trump continues to insist on imposing trade restrictions. He has used the threat of tariffs as a tool of pressure before, and is now returning to this tactic. The European Commission previously reached agreements with the US on trade issues, but the American president may reconsider these arrangements if he decides to punish Madrid for failing to meet new NATO standards. Similar measures have previously affected certain sectors of the Spanish economy, and this situation may repeat itself.
