Trump Criticizes Spain's NATO Defense Spending, Threatens Economic Sanctions
U.S. President Trump criticizes Spain for not meeting NATO defense spending targets and threatens economic sanctions, deepening diplomatic tensions in 2025.
- • Trump calls Spain "extremely disrespectful to NATO" for not raising defense spending to 5% of GDP.
- • He threatens economic reprisals, including tariffs, on Spain.
- • Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez defends the current spending level citing economic growth and social priorities.
- • Tensions between the U.S. and Spain are heightened by Spain's stance on the Gaza conflict and recognition of Palestine.
Key details
On October 14, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly condemned Spain for its failure to increase defense spending to 5% of its GDP, a benchmark agreed upon by NATO members. Speaking at the White House, Trump described Spain’s position as "extremely disrespectful to NATO" and warned of potential economic reprisals, including tariffs, against the country. He stated that Spain is the only NATO nation that has not raised its defense expenditure to the 5% target, pointing out that while Spain benefits greatly from NATO's protection, its lack of commitment imposes undue strain on other member states.
Trump’s remarks came after a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez at a Gaza peace summit in Egypt. Sánchez affirmed Spain’s commitment to NATO but explained that reaching the 5% spending goal is not feasible due to Spain's economic context. He emphasized the need to balance investment in defense with social welfare and economic growth. Despite Sánchez's defense of the current spending levels, Trump insisted that Spain should be "punished" for its defense shortfall.
These tensions are part of broader diplomatic friction between the U.S. and Spain, underscored by Spain's recent political stances, including its recognition of Palestine in May 2024 and its vocal position on the Gaza conflict within the European Union. Trump’s threats mark a continuation of pressure on Spain, hinting at concrete economic actions—a step he had alluded to previously but not acted upon.
This dispute highlights challenges within NATO regarding equitable contributions amid shifting geopolitical priorities. Trump's blunt call for Spain to increase its defense spending and warning of potential tariffs signal a strained U.S.-Spain relationship as the alliance navigates these contentious issues.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.