WASHINGTON D.C March 3, 2026 – U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that America will immediately sever all trade ties with Spain following the European NATO ally’s refusal to permit the use of its military bases for operations linked to ongoing U.S. strikes on Iran.
In remarks captured on video and shared by Reuters, Trump made the announcement during a White House meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday.
“Spain has been terrible,” Trump said. “In fact, I told Scott [Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] to cut off all dealings with Spain. We’re going to cut off all trade with Spain. We don’t want anything to do with Spain. Spain has absolutely nothing that we need.”
The escalation stems from Spain’s Socialist government under Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez blocking U.S. access to the strategically vital Rota naval base and Morón air base in southern Spain. Spanish officials insisted the facilities could only be used in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter — not for offensive operations against Iran.
As a direct result, the Pentagon relocated approximately 15 U.S. aircraft, including refueling tankers, from the bases.
Trump also criticised Spain’s NATO defence spending, claiming it falls short of alliance expectations.
Bilateral trade data shows the United States recorded a $4.8 billion surplus with Spain in 2025, exporting $26.1 billion in goods while importing $21.3 billion. Spain is a major global supplier of olive oil, automobile parts, steel and chemicals to the American market.
In response, Spanish officials described the threat as “blackmail.” Second Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz stated: “Spain will not accept blackmail or lectures from an aggressor nation. We are a country of peace.” The government stressed that any trade measures must respect EU-U.S. agreements, international law and the autonomy of private businesses, adding that Spain has the resources to manage any economic impact.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is scheduled to address the nation on the crisis tomorrow morning.
The row comes as U.S. military operations against Iran enter their fourth day and highlights growing strains within the transatlantic alliance. German Chancellor Merz noted ongoing European efforts to encourage Spain to raise its defence spending.
This story is developing. Life News Agency will continue monitoring reactions from Brussels, Madrid and Washington.
(Source: Reuters video and report, cross-verified with official statements and allied media)
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