US President Donald Trump has directed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to “cut off all trade with Spain” after the country refused to allow the United States to use its military bases for strikes on Iran.
“Spain has been terrible,” Trump said during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the White House. “I told Scott to cut off all dealings with Spain. We are going to stop all trade. They have great people, but not great leadership.”
The decision comes amid Trump’s frustration with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who opposed using Spanish bases in Rota and Moron for US operations against Iran. Trump added, “If we want, we can just fly in and use it. Nobody is going to tell us not to use it.”
Trump hits out at the UK
Trump also expressed disappointment with the UK, saying he is “not happy” with the country for blocking access to the military base on Diego Garcia.
“This is not Winston Churchill we are dealing with,” he said. “The UK has been very, very uncooperative with that stupid island.” Trump, however, did not announce a trade action against the UK.
On a more positive note, Trump praised Chancellor Merz, calling him “pretty much opposite to Merkel on immigration and energy.” He indicated optimism about upcoming US, Germany trade talks, suggesting “some very big trade deals” could materialize.
Trump’s comments come amid the ongoing US-Israel military campaign against Iran, which has involved missile and drone strikes on Iranian targets. Spain’s refusal to provide military bases was linked to objections over the campaign, with Prime Minister Sanchez warning that such operations could destabilize the region.
