Trump again threatens to cut trade relations with Spain; 'We are calm', says Madrid

President of the United States, Donald Trump, holds a press conference with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, in Ankara, Turkey, on July 8, 2026.
FILIP SINGER/Pool via REUTERS
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, threatened again this Wednesday (8) to completely break off Spain's commercial relations to punish what he considers the country's misconduct in the context of NATO (Atlantic Military Treaty North).
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Trump stated that he ordered the US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, to stop trade relations with Spain, classifying Madrid as a "terrible partner" in the military alliance.
"Spain is a lost cause. We no longer want to do commercial business with Spain", said Trump. "In fact, I would like to cut that. Spain is a terrible partner in NATO. They don't participate, they don't pay. I don't want to have anything to do with Spain. Cut all trade with Spain, including visits," he added.
Trump's threat occurred at a press conference in Ankara, the capital of Turkey, before a NATO summit, and alongside the alliance's secretary general, Mark Rutte. At the same press conference, Trump also stated that the peace agreement signed with Iran was "over" and that he would no longer negotiate with the Iranian government.
In response, the office of Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, stated that it treats Trump's statements as normal, adding that bilateral relations benefit both countries.
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Source: G1