• Trump criticizes Spain for low military spending, suggesting expulsion from NATO.
• Spain defends its commitment, calling itself a loyal NATO ally.
• Spain had previously secured an exemption from a NATO spending increase to 5% of GDP.
• Trump's comments reflect ongoing tensions regarding military expenditures among NATO members.
• Spain currently contributes approximately 1.28% of its GDP to defense, the lowest in NATO.

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly lambasted Spain for what he terms its status as a “laggard” in NATO spending, suggesting that the alliance might consider expelling the country over its reluctance to increase military expenditure. During a recent meeting with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Trump emphasized that NATO members need to pressure Spain to enhance its defense spending, which remains around 1.28% of its GDP instead of the agreed 5% target established at a NATO summit in June. Trump characterized Spain's compliance as inadequate, questioning, “What is their excuse?” according to Al Jazeera and Reuters.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez previously secured an exemption that allows Spain to commit only to 2.1% of its GDP for defense spending, a decision he called “sufficient and realistic.” Despite the criticisms from Trump, Spain's Defense Minister, Margarita Robles, asserted that the country remains a dedicated and loyal NATO ally. “We are not worried,” she stated, emphasizing Spain's active participation in various NATO missions, which she believes compensates for its lower spending, according to Los Angeles Times and India Times.

Trump has been vocal about his frustrations over NATO spending, often emphasizing that European nations must take greater responsibility for their defense. His critiques surfaced again when discussing Spain, the only NATO member not to agree to the increased quota. The remarks reflect broader tensions within NATO about military contributions, particularly in light of ongoing security concerns stemming from Russia's actions in Ukraine, which intensified following the 2022 invasion. Trump’s sentiments indicate a fluctuating relationship with NATO, oscillating between support and criticism depending on member compliance, as highlighted by various sources including Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Los Angeles Times.