Trump Threatens Spain With Tariffs Over NATO Spending and Basing

President Donald Trump threatened Spain with tariffs after the country refused to increase its defense spending to 5% of GDP and denied the U.S. basing and overflight rights for strikes against Iran. The tension follows a leaked email from U.S. Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby, who proposed disciplinary measures against reluctant NATO allies, including the potential suspension of member states from prestigious positions.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned the pre-emptive war launched by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, characterizing the action as an illegal violation of international law. Sánchez dismissed the leaked Colby email, stating that the Spanish government only recognizes official documents and formal positions from the United States.

Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson defended the administration's approach, asserting that the U.S. will maintain credible options to ensure allies contribute their fair share. This friction persists despite previous flexibility granted to Spain by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte regarding capability targets.