The European Union has thrown its support behind Spain after Donald Trump threatened trade retaliation in a growing diplomatic row.
The European Commission said it ‘fully stands in solidarity’ with Spain and all EU member states, warning it is ready to act if necessary to protect the bloc’s interests.
In a statement sent to the media, Brussels stressed that it would use the EU’s common trade policy if the situation escalates.
‘The Commission will ensure the full protection of the interests of the European Union,’ said EU spokesperson Olof Gill.
The warning came after the US president lashed out at Spain, calling it a ‘terrible ally’ for refusing to allow American forces to use the military bases at Rota (Cadiz) and Moron (Sevilla) for strikes on Iran.
Trump also threatened potential trade reprisals, raising the prospect of tariffs or even an embargo on Spanish goods.
Despite the pressure from Washington, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has doubled down on Madrid’s position.
‘Our stance can be summed up in four words: no to the war,’ he said in his first national address since the Middle East crisis escalated.
Sanchez insisted Spain would not back military escalation and warned against repeating the mistakes of past conflicts, while urging a diplomatic solution.
‘The government will not become complicit out of fear of reprisals,’ he said.
Trump, speaking from the Oval Office, suggested he had the power to punish Spain economically.
‘All the business we do with Spain – I have the right to put embargoes on everything related to Spain,’ he said.
He also criticised Spain’s defence spending, claiming it is the only NATO ally unwilling to move towards spending 5% of GDP on defence.
The Spanish government quickly pushed back, insisting Spain remains a key NATO member that contributes significantly to Europe’s defence.
Officials in Madrid also highlighted Spain’s strong global trade links, noting the country exports to nearly 200 nations and maintains a long-standing commercial relationship with the United States.
At the same time, the government signalled it is preparing contingency plans in case the dispute turns into a full trade clash.
Officials said Spain has the resources to support affected industries and diversify supply chains if Washington moves ahead with economic pressure.
Even so, Madrid said it still hopes to maintain cooperation with the US.
The government stressed it remains open to working with Washington on free trade and economic cooperation, provided relations are based on mutual respect and international law.
