Should Spain Be Expelled from NATO?
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Synopsis
In a bold statement, US President Donald Trump has suggested that Spain be expelled from NATO for its reluctance to increase defense spending. This proposal comes amid rising tensions and commitments from NATO members to enhance military budgets. Explore the implications and reactions surrounding this controversial statement.
Key Takeaways
- Trump's proposal to expel Spain from NATO highlights defense spending disparities.
- Spain's Prime Minister rejects the 5% GDP defense spending target.
- NATO members face pressure to increase military budgets by 2035.
- Trump's comments reflect ongoing tensions within the alliance.
- The need for dialogue between NATO members is emphasized.
Washington, Oct 10 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump has proposed that Spain be removed from NATO due to its unwillingness to boost defense expenditures.
"They have no justification for not doing this," Trump remarked to reporters at the White House during a discussion with Finnish President Alexander Stubb. "We had one laggard, it was Spain...Perhaps it's time to consider expelling them from NATO, frankly."
"You all need to start dialogues with Spain," Trump urged. "Reach out to them and inquire why they are lagging behind."
Amidst pressure from Trump, NATO allies in June consented to elevate their military budgets to 5 percent of their gross domestic product by 2035, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez dismissed this target, labeling it as "incompatible with our welfare system and our vision of the world."
Sanchez has maintained that Madrid does not need to meet the proposed figure. Spain is notably one of the lowest defense spenders among NATO members.
In June, the 32-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization pledged to significantly boost defense budgets over the next decade, following Trump's warnings of potential trade consequences for Madrid due to its resistance to the new target of five percent of GDP.
The US president has pushed for this commitment to allocate five percent of their GDPs on security spending, a move seen as crucial for maintaining his engagement with NATO.
Point of View
President Trump's suggestion to expel Spain from NATO reflects ongoing tensions regarding defense spending commitments among member states. While the call for increased military budgets is not new, it highlights the challenges NATO faces in balancing national interests with collective security obligations. The dialogue around Spain's defense spending merits further examination in light of its socio-economic context.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Trump suggest expelling Spain from NATO?
Trump suggested expelling Spain from NATO due to its refusal to increase defense spending, which he believes undermines collective security efforts.
What is the proposed defense spending target for NATO members?
NATO members agreed to raise their military spending to 5 percent of their gross domestic product by 2035.
How did the Spanish Prime Minister respond to Trump's comments?
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez rejected the spending target, calling it incompatible with Spain's welfare state.
What are the implications of Trump's statement for NATO?
Trump's statement could strain relations within NATO and raise questions about member commitments to defense spending.
Is Spain one of the lowest defense spenders in NATO?
Yes, Spain is considered one of the lowest defense spending countries in NATO relative to other member states.
