Trump denies tension with Spain's Sanchez after World Cup win

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he maintains no tension with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, just weeks after ordering a complete halt to trade with Madrid and calling the country a "terrible partner" in the NATO alliance.

World Cup remarks

Speaking to reporters following Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup final, Trump dismissed suggestions of a rift with Sanchez. "I have no tension with him. I have no tension with anybody," he said, congratulating Spanish officials on their "great team" and describing the final as an "exciting" and "great event." He noted that Spain deserved the victory, stating that "Spain played better," though he added that "it was a very close match."

NATO tensions

The conciliatory tone marked a sharp contrast to the president's recent statements targeting Madrid. Earlier this month, Trump labeled Spain a "wasted cause" and a "terrible partner in NATO" for refusing to allow American forces access to Spanish bases during the conflict with Iran and for Madrid's refusal to commit to a 5% defense spending target.

Speaking at the NATO summit in Ankara, Türkiye, he ordered a complete halt to bilateral trade. "I don't want anything to do with Spain. Cut off all trade with Spain, please, including visits," he said at the news conference. "Don't even talk to them. They're hopeless, bad people," he added.

The dispute stems from Spain's refusal to allow American forces access to its bases during the conflict with Iran and Madrid's rejection of a 5% defense spending target. Spanish officials have not yet responded to Trump's conciliatory comments following the World Cup final.