Donald Trump has launched a fresh attack on Spain, claiming the country is performing ‘very badly’ economically, despite data showing the opposite.
Writing on his social media platform Truth Social, the US president said: ‘Has anyone noticed how badly Spain is doing?
‘Its economic figures, despite contributing virtually nothing to NATO or its military defence, are absolutely disastrous. It’s very sad to see!’
Trump’s comments sharply contradict the latest economic outlooks.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) this week ranked Spain among the fastest-growing advanced economies, forecasting it will lead GDP growth in the EU for the fifth consecutive year.
Spain’s labour market is also showing strong momentum. In March alone, more than 211,000 jobs were created – the best figure on record for that month – pushing total employment to around 22 million, an all-time high.
Analysts have repeatedly pointed to Spain as one of Europe’s standout performers in recent years.
NATO row resurfaces
Trump also criticised Spain’s defence spending, accusing it of failing to contribute adequately to NATO.
However, Spain’s position follows agreements within the alliance. While NATO members have set an aspirational target of increasing defence spending towards 5% of GDP, the Spanish government has made clear it intends to meet capability commitments with a lower budget – just over 2% of GDP, roughly €35 billion.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has defended that stance, insisting Spain will fulfil its obligations while maintaining fiscal balance.
Tensions amid global summit
Trump’s remarks came as Spain hosted a major summit of progressive leaders in Barcelona over the weekend, where figures including Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum and Colombia’s Gustavo Petro gathered to discuss global challenges.
The meeting has also been seen as a show of unity among progressive governments in response to Trump’s rhetoric and policies.
