Trump Pushes to Expel Spain from NATO
U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday suggested that Spain should be expelled from NATO over its refusal to increase defense spending to the level Trump demands.
Criticism Over Spain’s Defense Spending
During a meeting with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Trump called Spain a “laggard” in meeting military expenditure commitments. He urged European leaders to pressure Madrid and added: “Maybe you should throw them out of NATO, frankly.”
NATO’s New Spending Target
In June 2025, NATO members adopted a new target for defense budgets equivalent to 5% of GDP, replacing the older 2% benchmark. Spain is currently the only NATO country to have secured an exemption from the target. Madrid has committed to raising its defense spending to around 2.1%, citing fiscal constraints and social priorities.
Madrid’s Response
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Defense Minister Margarita Robles defended Spain’s role in NATO. Madrid says it contributes actively to alliance missions and argues that its defense budget increase is realistic and consistent with its national priorities.
Challenges and Reactions
Many NATO members view Mr. Trump’s proposal as rhetorical pressure rather than serious policy. Expelling a member would require unanimous agreement and major diplomatic upheaval. Analysts say the dispute reflects deeper tensions about burden sharing, alliance cohesion, and the balance between defense commitments and domestic priorities.
