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Trump says he doesn't want anything to do with Spain: 'Cut off all trade'
CNBC • • nation
Key Points:
- President Donald Trump criticized Spain at the NATO summit in Turkey for insufficient defense spending and lack of participation, calling Spain a "terrible partner" and suggesting cutting off all trade and visits.
- Spain remains the only NATO member not committed to spending 5% of its GDP on defense by 2035, though it increased its defense budget to 2.1% of GDP in 2025 from 1.4% in 2021.
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte acknowledged Spain's progress in defense spending but noted ongoing issues, while the Spanish Prime Minister's Office dismissed Trump's remarks as typical rhetoric and emphasized strong bilateral relations with the U.S.
- Trump also expressed general dissatisfaction with NATO despite praising Rutte, highlighting tensions within the alliance as leaders convene to address defense spending commitments and the alliance's future viability.
