Trump Warns Spain on NATO 5% Defense Spending, Threatens Sanctions

U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized Spain for refusing to meet NATO's new defense spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035, threatening significant trade penalties if Spain does not comply. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces domestic and international pressure over this stance, as Spain cites economic and social welfare concerns for its reluctance to increase defense spending. Trump emphasized that Spain is the only NATO member resisting the increased defense commitment, warning that the U.S. might make Spain 'pay twice as much' in trade terms as a consequence. The NATO summit marked a substantial shift in defense expectations, aiming to more than double the previous 2% GDP benchmark to strengthen military readiness and infrastructure amid ongoing global threats, particularly from Russia. Critics of Sánchez warn that his approach risks alienating allies and destabilizing his government, while supporters argue it is necessary for Spain’s security and international standing. Trump’s stance highlights broader tensions within NATO over burden-sharing and the U.S. frustration with what it perceives as European free-riding on American defense commitments.