Pedro Sanchez opts for caution and does not fuel the clash with Donald Trump. Following attacks from the American president, who labeled Spain a "poor NATO ally" and criticized Madrid's stance on defense and international policy, the Spanish prime minister has chosen 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, has defended 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 commit to 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" on economic, social, and cultural levels.
Madrid also defended the achievements in the security sector. Sanchez noted that Spain has exceeded the 2% GDP target for capabilities required by NATO 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 has 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 field of defense, helping to strengthen the Sanchez government's position following criticism from Washington.
(Associated Medias) - All rights reserved