Trump Threatens Spain Over NATO Spending

President Donald Trump sharply escalated his dispute with Spain during the NATO summit in Ankara, saying he had instructed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to suspend trade negotiations with Madrid. He accused Spain of failing to support the US adequately within NATO.

Trump has repeatedly criticized Spain for refusing to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP. He also condemned Madrid's stance during the conflict with Iran, saying it did not allow US forces to use Spanish bases or airspace.

Despite the dispute, the US continues to operate two major military bases in Spain.

The Pentagon had previously considered a range of measures against allies that, according to Washington, did not provide sufficient support for US operations against Iran.

(Reuters, mja)