Trump Praises Germany’s Iran Stance, Criticizes Allies Over Military Action

President Donald Trump on Tuesday lauded Germany’s position on the ongoing conflict involving Iran, while simultaneously criticizing other NATO allies, Spain and Great Britain, for their approaches to the situation. The remarks came during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the White House.

Germany’s “Great” Response

Trump stated that Germany has behaved “greatly” in contrast to other NATO partners. He explicitly noted that he was not requesting Germany to contribute ground troops or other direct military assistance. “We are not asking them to send ground troops or do anything like that,” Trump said.

Criticism of Spain and Great Britain

The President sharply criticized Spain, stating that the country has “behaved terribly” by prohibiting the United States from utilizing air bases located on its territory. Trump asserted the U.S. Could use Spanish bases even without permission, deeming Spain’s refusal as “unfriendly” and instructing his finance minister, Scott Bessent, to halt “all deals” with Madrid. The specifics of these “deals” were not immediately clarified.

Chancellor Merz concurred with the criticism of Spain, but focused on the country’s failure to meet the mutually agreed-upon target for NATO defense spending, stating, “Spain is the only country that is not yet ready for this.”

Trump likewise leveled criticism at Great Britain, stating, “We are not dealing with Winston Churchill here,” in reference to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He described the British response as “shocking,” noting initial resistance to allowing U.S. Attacks on Iran from British bases, with Starmer eventually granting limited use on Sunday evening.

Agreement on Regime Change

Unlike Spain and Great Britain, Germany has permitted the U.S. To use the air base in Ramstein, Rhineland-Palatinate, for attacks. Chancellor Merz indicated alignment with Trump’s goals, stating, “We agree that this terrible regime in Tehran must be eliminated.” He emphasized the need to discuss political perspectives and security structures for the period following the conflict.

Ukraine Remains a Priority

Chancellor Merz also raised the importance of continuing efforts to resolve the war in Ukraine, referencing the presence of “too many ‘bad guys’” in the world, specifically mentioning Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump assured that diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine remain a high priority.

Trade Disputes and Past Criticism

The meeting also touched upon trade disputes, with Trump reiterating his intention to impose a global tariff of 15 percent on imports to the United States. He also joked with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer about potentially imposing “particularly, very hard” tariffs on Germany, playfully patting Merz on the knee, to which the Chancellor remained silent.

Trump also criticized former Chancellor Angela Merkel’s policies on migration and energy, stating she had “harmed” Germany. He contrasted this with his view of Chancellor Merz as an “excellent leader” and a “friend.”

Unequal Speaking Time and Protocol

The speaking time during the meeting was significantly imbalanced, with Trump speaking for approximately 30 minutes compared to Merz’s three minutes. Merz was also escorted through a side entrance of the White House, deviating from the usual protocol for such high-profile visits. The meeting garnered international attention as the first in-person appearance by a head of state at Trump’s residence following the American-Israeli attacks.