Wed Oct 15 17:39:55 UTC 2025: ## Spain Refutes Trump’s Tariff Threat Over NATO Spending, Argues for Focus on Real Threats

**Brussels, Belgium** – The European Commission and the Spanish government have dismissed threats from former US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Spain for allegedly failing to meet NATO’s proposed defense spending target. Trump recently expressed “unhappiness” with Spain, claiming it was the only NATO member rejecting the 5% of GDP spending objective, and hinted at “trade punishment through tariffs.”

The European Commission, responsible for trade policy, stated it would “respond appropriately” to any measures against its member states. A spokesperson emphasized the existing EU-US trade deal as the appropriate forum for addressing concerns.

Spain’s Economy and Trade Ministry countered that the defense spending debate should center on addressing “real threats” rather than arbitrary targets. “We’re doing our part to develop the necessary capabilities and contribute to the collective defence of our allies,” the ministry stated.

While Spain has significantly increased its defense spending to 2% of GDP, equating to roughly €32.7 billion, Defense Minister Margarita Robles indicated that allies were prioritizing the current situation in Ukraine over discussing the 5% target.

Experts point to historical precedents of targeted US tariffs against individual EU member states, such as the 1999 case involving hormone-treated beef. Potential retaliatory measures could include anti-dumping penalties on Spanish products, drawing parallels to the 2018 tariffs imposed on Spanish black table olives. Another potential move, floated by a former Trump official, involves relocating US naval and air bases from Spain to Morocco, a move that would significantly impact local economies.

The situation remains tense, with Spain advocating for a practical approach to defense spending focused on tangible threats, while facing potential economic consequences from the US over perceived shortcomings in meeting ambitious spending targets.

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