BRUSSELS — Following Donald Trump’s recent derogatory comments about the Spanish government, Spain’s political leaders are expressing their outrage towards German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. His inaction during Trump’s disparaging remarks in the Oval Office has drawn significant criticism.
Merz’s silence sparks outrage
In an interview with POLITICO on Monday, Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz condemned Merz, stating that he is indicative of a group of EU leaders who are ill-equipped to navigate the critical challenges of our times. “What Europe needs today is leadership, not vassals who pay homage to Trump,” she asserted.
Merz faced backlash after remaining silent at a March 3 press conference where Trump threatened to impose sanctions on Spain for its refusal to permit U.S. military aircraft to utilize Spanish air bases for operations against Iran. Additionally, Trump criticized Spain for not allocating 5 percent of its GDP to military expenditure. Following this meeting, Merz explained that he chose not to intervene during Trump’s remarks to avoid escalating tensions publicly. He later claimed to have privately communicated with Trump, emphasizing that economic sanctions should not target a single EU nation.
Reactions from Spain
Despite Merz’s explanations, his actions have not pacified the indignation in Madrid. Shortly after the press conference, Spanish Foreign Minister José Luis Albares publicly criticized Merz for failing to defend Spain, reflecting on how previous German leaders like Angela Merkel or Olaf Scholz would have responded differently in such a situation. The German chancellor has been labeled a “coward” in Spanish media, with editorials chastising him for neglecting to support a European ally.
Merz’s spokesperson, Stefan Kornelius, sought to downplay the growing rift, asserting that “the relationship is not tense at all.” He suggested that there was no issue with Germany’s handling of the incident and noted that Sautter had briefed his Spanish counterpart immediately following the meeting with Trump. However, he admitted that communication between Merz and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has not occurred since the Washington visit. Following failed attempts to reach Sánchez, it was revealed that the chancellor had dialed an outdated number.
In a rare public disagreement, both nations, traditionally known for their strong diplomatic ties, are now experiencing a strain in their relationship. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized the enduring alliance, stating that Germany stands with Spain against Trump’s threats regarding trade tariffs.
Meanwhile, Díaz expressed optimism that Spanish-German relations would endure despite the current tensions, but she also voiced her disappointment regarding the reluctance of Merz and other EU leaders to unite in denouncing the ongoing military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran. “Article 1 of the United Nations Charter is clear about what defines an illegitimate war,” she remarked, underscoring her belief that EU leaders should advocate for international law.
In response, Merz reiterated his support for the U.S.-Israeli operations, citing Iran’s connections to international terrorism. “Iran is the center of international terrorism,” he stated, asserting that measures must be taken to address this threat.
Díaz, who leads the far-left Sumar party, criticized Merz’s alignment with Trump’s policies as a reflection of Germany’s economic vulnerabilities, calling for Europe to seek greater autonomy in various sectors. She emphasized the necessity of reducing reliance on both the United States and China to ensure Europe’s independence.