US to suspend trade with Spain, Trump says

US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will suspend all trade with Spain after Madrid refused to allow its military bases to be used for operations linked to strikes on Iran.

Trump made the announcement during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, saying he had instructed the Treasury Secretary to halt ‘all trade relations’ with Spain.

The dispute followed the relocation of 15 aircraft from the US bases in Rota and Morón in southern Spain after the Spanish government declined to authorise their use.

Madrid argues that such an operation would not be in accordance with the bilateral agreement or the UN Charter. Relations between the two countries are also strained over migration, defence spending and Spain’s stance on Israel.

(reuters, mja)