BRUSSELS/MADRID — The European Union has spoken out strongly in support of Pedro Sánchez and Spain’s position against the United States’ actions in Iran following threats by Donald Trump to cut trade ties with Madrid.
European Council President António Costa said on Wednesday that he had spoken by phone with Sánchez to convey the EU’s “full solidarity” with Spain, emphasising that the bloc will ensure the interests of its member states are “fully protected.”
The European Commission also made clear that it stands ready to defend the EU’s economic interests if necessary. Commission spokesman Olof Gill reaffirmed that the union “stands in full solidarity with all member states and all their citizens” and, through its common trade policy, is prepared to take action to safeguard EU interests. He noted that the EU and the United States concluded a major trade deal last year and Madrid expects Washington to respect those commitments
Trump’s criticisms came after Spain refused to allow use of the Rota naval base and Morón air base for operations linked to the US-Israel offensive against Iran, a refusal that has intensified tensions between Madrid and Washington. (Hespress)
In addition to the EU’s backing, French President Emmanuel Macron also conveyed European solidarity to Sánchez in a separate phone call, reinforcing the bloc’s united front in response to external economic pressure
Spain’s Deputy Prime Minister María Jesús Montero echoed the EU’s support, declaring that Spain “will not be vassals” to any country and will defend its values and sovereignty in the face of threats.
The expressions of support from Brussels and Paris underline mounting European concern over unilateral threats that could strain transatlantic relations and complicate diplomatic efforts amid the broader Middle East crisis.