Spain responds to Trump's tariff threats, warns of US economic costs

Spanish government officials have issued strong responses to US President Donald Trump's threats of imposing tariffs on Spain over defense expenditure disagreements. Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz cautioned that punitive trade measures would prove "very costly" for American citizens, citing Spain's existing trade deficit with the United States as evidence that tariffs would negatively impact US economic interests.

Economic Arguments and Sovereignty Assertion

During parliamentary proceedings, Díaz emphasized that Spain maintains autonomous decision-making authority, stating "In Spain, the Spanish are in charge; we are not their protectorate." The deputy prime minister pledged to defend Spanish industrial sectors potentially affected by US trade actions, including the oil and automotive industries, while highlighting the reciprocal economic damage such measures would cause both nations.

NATO Commitment and Diplomatic Reassurance

Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares concurrently reaffirmed Spain's steadfast commitment to NATO during remarks in China, characterizing Spanish contributions to Euro-Atlantic security as "beyond any doubt." He described Spain as "a reliable ally" with substantial military deployments along NATO's eastern flank that play fundamental roles in regional security architecture, directly countering suggestions of inadequate alliance participation.

Political Context and Bilateral Relations

The diplomatic exchange follows President Trump's expressed dissatisfaction with Spain's defense spending levels, specifically noting the country had not increased expenditures to 5% of GDP as reportedly requested. Science Minister Diana Morant acknowledged Trump's "regular" controversial statements while noting his recent cordial interaction with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, suggesting bilateral relations extend beyond rhetorical exchanges.