Donald Trump has raised tension with European allies by questioning the presence of North American troops in key bases in Italy and Spain. In statements to the press, the New York magnate justified his position in the absence of support from these countries during the military offensive that began against Iran on February 28, a joint and surprising action with Israel that has marked a turning point in international relations.
“Italy has not helped us at all and Spain has been horrible”
Trump did not skimp on direct criticism. “Yes, probably. Why shouldn’t I? Italy has not helped us at all and Spain has been horrible, absolutely horrible. When we needed them, they were not there. We have to remember that,” said the American leader, underlining the disappointment at the lack of support at a critical moment.
This statement comes in a context of growing transatlantic frictions, where Washington perceives a disproportionate burden in its defensive role within NATO.
The offensive against Iran, which surprised the world with its speed and scale, sought to neutralize nuclear and ballistic missile threats, according to official White House sources. Spain and Italy, despite their membership in the Atlantic alliance, chose not to actively get involved, prioritizing their positions of neutrality in the conflict.
Renewed attack on Europe and reproaches to Germany
The president took the opportunity to attack European partners again, recalling American support for Ukraine in the face of the Russian invasion. “Ukraine has nothing to do with us; we are on the other side of the ocean,” he said, alluding to the billions invested by the US in military and humanitarian aid since 2022. Trump also attacked Germany, which he accused of doing “a terrible job” due to its mass immigration problems and the energy crisis resulting from the end of Russian gas.
This verbal barrage comes shortly after Trump hinted at cutting troops in Germany in retaliation for statements by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who criticized the alleged lack of a clear strategy in the Iranian offensive. The president called Merz “totally useless” in efforts to stop Russian aggression in Ukraine, reviving similar threats from his first term (2017-2021), when he already pushed to reduce the military footprint on German soil.
Background and implications for NATO
The American presence in Europe, with some 80,000 troops deployed mainly in Germany, Italy and Spain (where the Morón and Rota air bases stand out), has been a pillar of NATO deterrence since the Cold War. Trump, true to his “America First” doctrine, has repeatedly questioned these commitments, arguing that allies do not contribute enough to collective military spending.
If it materialized, a withdrawal by Spain and Italy would alter the strategic balance in the Mediterranean, affecting counterterrorism operations and surveillance of the Strait of Gibraltar. Analysts warn it could erode NATO cohesion, as Iran responds with proxy attacks and the war in Ukraine drags into its fourth year.
Possible European responses
Diplomatic sources in Madrid and Rome indicated that both governments are studying urgent consultations with Brussels. Spain, under internal pressure due to the cost of the Yankee bases, could see this threat as an opportunity to renegotiate bilateral agreements, while Italy seeks to mediate to avoid an escalation. Trump, for his part, insists that “we have to remember that,” leaving the door open to more moves in the coming days.
