Spain-Germany Rift Highlights EU Divisions Over Trump’s Foreign Policy

Growing tensions between Spain and Germany are exposing deeper fissures within the European Union regarding how to respond to the increasingly assertive foreign policy of U.S. President Donald Trump. The dispute centers on Germany’s perceived silence during a recent meeting between Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, where Trump leveled criticisms against Spain.

Trump’s Criticism of Spain

On March 3, 2026, President Trump publicly criticized Spain for its defense spending and its refusal to allow the United States to use Spanish military bases, located at Morón and Rota, for potential airstrikes against Iran. Trump threatened a full trade embargo, stating, “Spain has been terrible…We’re going to cut off all trade with Spain. We don’t want anything to do with Spain.” BBC News

Merz’s Response and Subsequent Fallout

During the meeting, Chancellor Merz remained largely silent in response to Trump’s remarks. He later defended his silence by stating he didn’t want to “aggravate” the situation. He also claimed to have privately told Trump that economic sanctions could not be imposed on a single EU country. Politico

This response drew sharp criticism from Spanish officials. Spanish Foreign Minister José Luis Albares stated that former German Chancellors Angela Merkel or Olaf Scholz would not have remained silent in a similar situation. Politico Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz accused Merz of being a “vassal” to Trump and lacking the leadership Europe needs. Politico

Sánchez’s Defiant Stance

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has strongly defended his country’s position, reiterating his opposition to war and what he called the “breakdown of international law.” In a televised address on March 4, 2026, Sánchez emphasized a commitment to “no to war,” referencing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and the Iraq War. BBC News

Sánchez’s firm stance has garnered support from other European leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his “solidarity” with Spain, and European Council President António Costa expressed the EU’s “full solidarity.” BBC News

Communication Breakdown

Reports indicate a breakdown in communication between Sánchez and Merz. German media outlet Der Spiegel reported that Merz attempted to contact Sánchez four times after returning from the U.S., including while traveling to a campaign event, but received no response. Sky News A Spanish government spokesperson suggested Sánchez regularly changes his cell phone number for security reasons, though other sources indicate recent communication with other leaders. Sky News

Implications for EU Unity

The dispute highlights a growing divide within the EU regarding how to navigate relations with the Trump administration. While some leaders appear willing to accommodate Trump’s demands, others, like Sánchez, are taking a more defiant stance, prioritizing principles of international law and national sovereignty. This situation raises questions about the future of EU unity and its ability to present a cohesive front on the global stage. Chatham House