Trump Threatens to Expel Spain from NATO Over Defense Spending Dispute

In a recent press conference at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly threatened to expel Spain from NATO due to its refusal to meet the new defense spending target of 5% of GDP agreed upon by NATO allies. Trump criticized Spain for lagging behind other members, stating, "We had a laggard. It was Spain. We need to call them and find out why they have fallen behind," emphasizing that Spain has no excuse given its economic capacity (ID 94158).

During the joint appearance with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Trump reiterated his demand for Spain to increase its military budget to 5% of GDP, criticizing the Spanish government’s opposition to this target. He warned that Spain might face commercial sanctions and suggested expulsion from NATO if it continued resisting (ID 94160). Notably, Spain currently allocates around 2% of GDP—approximately €30 billion—to defense, which is close to its annual infrastructure investment but well below the 5% target (ID 94158).

Spain's government, led by Pedro Sánchez, has negotiated for a more flexible interpretation of defense spending commitments, focusing on achieving NATO's military capability objectives rather than adhering strictly to the 5% threshold (ID 94158, 94161). Sánchez's administration faces opposition from leftist parties in parliament that resist further increases in defense spending (ID 94158). Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the opposition Popular Party, defended Spain's credibility as a NATO member and criticized Sánchez’s leadership, stating, "Our nation should not pay for his frivolity and irresponsibility" (ID 94158, 94157).

The rift over defense spending arises amid increased tensions in Eastern Europe, including Russian provocations via drones violating Polish and Swedish airspace, prompting NATO countries to emphasize collective security (ID 94158). Former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and current Secretary General Mark Rutte have underlined Spain’s strategic vulnerabilities and urged it to meet its obligations to the alliance (ID 94160, 94161).

Spain has historically been a NATO member since 1982 and was the only member at the recent NATO summit who refused to sign on to the 5% military spending declaration, deemed essential by other allies to address emerging threats (ID 94162). Finland, a newer member, is notably increasing its defense budget towards the 5% goal, highlighting contrasting commitments within the alliance (ID 94162).

President Trump’s stark warnings reveal deep discord within NATO regarding burden-sharing and defense funding. While Spain defends its approach emphasizing military readiness over rigid spending targets, NATO leadership insists on higher contributions to face evolving global security challenges. The controversy adds pressure on Spain’s government to reconcile domestic opposition with alliance commitments, while the broader NATO community confronts increasing geopolitical uncertainties.