HUELVA, Spain: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated on Friday that “loyal cooperation” should prevail in relations with the United States rather than “confrontation,” following recent tensions over Madrid’s refusal to allow US bases on Spanish soil to be used for strikes against Iran.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro in the southern city of Huelva, Sanchez emphasised that bilateral ties should be conducted “with respect, in a spirit of loyal cooperation and on an equal footing.”
Sanchez reiterated his criticism of US and Israeli strikes against Iran, describing them as an “extraordinary mistake” and a violation of international law. “Between allied countries, it is good to help when the other is right, but also to tell them when they are wrong or make a mistake, as is the case here,” the Socialist leader said.
The remarks come after US President Donald Trump criticised Spain on Tuesday, calling it a “terrible” ally and threatening to cut off trade with the country. Sanchez responded the next day by reaffirming his opposition to the military action and his refusal to allow US forces to use bases in southern Spain for operations against Iran.
Trump further criticised on Thursday, referring to Spain as “a loser” in an interview with the New York Post.
Sanchez, among a shrinking number of left-leaning leaders in Europe, has previously clashed with Trump over multiple issues. He has declined to join NATO allies in committing to raising defence spending to five percent of GDP—a target pushed by Trump—and has strongly condemned Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Despite the diplomatic friction, Sanchez expressed on Friday his “immense respect for the US presidency and great admiration for American society.”
