US President Donald Trump criticized Spain at a political event he attended in North Dakota. Trump emphasized that despite its NATO membership, Spain does not adequately contribute to the alliance, using the words, "Spain is a NATO member but not a good NATO member."
Trump stated that Spain does not support military operations, particularly those against Iran, and does not meet its NATO obligations. Referring to former US President Theodore Roosevelt's battles against the Spanish, Trump recounted how Roosevelt's victories broke through the Spanish line. Listing regions where Spain historically had influence, such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Guam, Trump said, "(Spain) They don't treat us well. They'll understand soon when they see these places slipping away from them. All of them were once ours."
Also touching on the Panama Canal, Trump described the canal's construction by the US and its subsequent handover as "a strategic mistake." Noting that Washington will act against China's growing influence in the region, Trump said regarding the Cuban government, "After decades, it is coming toward us."