Pedro Sanchez opts for caution and does not escalate the conflict with Donald Trump. Following attacks from the American president, who labeled Spain a "bad NATO ally" and criticized Madrid's stance on defense and international policy, the Spanish prime minister decided to maintain a diplomatic approach focused on calm.
The strategy from Moncloa is clear: avoid a bilateral confrontation with the White House and bring the discussion back to the European level. Sanchez, present at the NATO summit in Ankara, affirmed Spain's commitments within the Atlantic Alliance, emphasizing that the country arrived at the summit "with its homework done."
Trump had accused Madrid of not adequately supporting the United States, particularly criticizing Spain's failure to meet the target of allocating 5% of GDP to defense by 2035 and the Sanchez government's stance on the war against Iran. "Spain has not helped us," the American president declared, also hinting at possible consequences for trade relations.
The Spanish prime minister's response was measured. "Trade relations are negotiated with the European Commission," Sanchez reminded, reiterating that Spain acts as a member of the European Union and not as an isolated interlocutor with Washington.
The socialist leader also downplayed the personal confrontation with Trump, explaining that he had an "informal and tension-free conversation" with him, during which they also discussed the upcoming World Cup. According to Sanchez, relations between Spain and the United States remain "very, very positive" economically, socially, and culturally.
Madrid also defended the achievements in the security sector. Sanchez noted that Spain has exceeded the 2% GDP target for NATO-required capabilities by 2026, a figure certified by the Alliance itself. Additionally, he announced the participation of Spanish forces in the NATO mission for Arctic defense in Finland.
Brussels supported Spain's position. The European Commission highlighted the strong economic integration between the European Union and the United States and reiterated the importance of respecting mutual commitments. A signal of European unity in a phase of tensions with the American ally.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also acknowledged the efforts made by Madrid in the defense field, helping to strengthen the Sanchez government's position following criticisms from Washington.
(Associated Medias) - Tutti i diritti sono riservati