Middle East Crisis: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said Washington would halt all trade with Spain, escalating tensions after Madrid reportedly declined to allow American forces to use its military bases for operations related to strikes on Iran.
Trump criticised Spain’s stance and described the country as ‘unfriendly’
Speaking to reporters during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump criticised Spain’s stance and described the country as ‘unfriendly.’ He said he had directed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to end all commercial dealings with Spain.
“We’re going to cut off all trade with Spain. We don’t want anything to do with Spain,” Trump said, reiterating his position multiple times during the interaction.
The remarks came amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Trump suggested that while the United States could use Spanish bases if it chose to, it would refrain from doing so following Spain’s refusal. “Spain actually said that we can’t use their bases. We could use them if we want, but we don’t have to,” he said.
US President draws a contrast between Spain and other European allies
At the same time, the US President drew a contrast between Spain and other European allies. He praised Germany for being ‘great’ and commended NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, calling him ‘fantastic.’ Trump added that some European nations had been supportive of US actions, while others had not.
Spain had ‘great people,’ Trump says
Despite his criticism of the Spanish government, Trump noted that Spain had ‘great people’ but insisted that the United States did not rely on the country for trade or other needs.
There was no immediate response from Spanish authorities following Trump’s remarks. The comments are likely to strain diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries if formal action follows through on the threat.
