Summary
President Donald Trump suggested Spain might be removed from NATO due to its low defense spending. He made these remarks during a meeting with Finland's president, highlighting that Spain spends the least on defense among NATO members. Spain's Prime Minister and Defense Minister have responded by emphasizing their commitment to NATO.
Key Facts
- President Trump suggested Spain might be thrown out of NATO over low defense spending.
- Spain spends 1.28% of its GDP on defense, the lowest in NATO, according to estimates.
- NATO members, except Spain, agreed to increase their military spending to 5% of GDP.
- Spain's Prime Minister argued that a 5% target is incompatible with Spain's welfare state.
- Spain's Defense Minister stated the U.S. military understands Spain's commitment to NATO.
- President Trump expressed these views during a meeting with Finland's president in the Oval Office.
- Spain joined NATO in 1982 and asserts that it meets its capability targets.
