Trump Renews Call to End Trade with ‘Terrible Partner’ Spain

President Donald Trump has renewed his call to end trade with Spain, citing the country’s lack of support for the war in Iran and its lower defense spending. Trump made the comments during a NATO summit appearance with Secretary General Mark Rutte in Ankara, Turkey, on July 8. He described Spain as a “terrible partner” in NATO, stating that the country does not participate and does not pay its fair share. The Spanish government responded calmly to Trump’s remarks, emphasizing the excellent relationship between the two countries and the US trade surplus with Spain. This is not the first time Trump has made threats to cut off economic links to Spain, having previously directed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to “cut off all trade with Spain” in March. Spain has increased its defense spending from 1.42% of GDP in 2024 to 2% in 2025, but does not plan to raise it beyond 2.1%. The European Commission has noted that the EU has a trade deal with the US, which the bloc recently ratified, and expects the US to honor its commitments. Trump has not detailed how he could follow through on his threats toward Spain, given its membership in the European Union.