Lawyer and political analyst María Mellado discussed Spain’s position within NATO and its relationship with the United States during her appearance on the program Sánchez Grass. Asked whether Spain could leave the Atlantic Alliance due to its low compliance with commitments, Mellado firmly stated, “No, I don’t think Spain is going to leave NATO. I think Spain will remain.”
Mellado explained that mediation efforts have been initiated from Germany to encourage Spain to increase its contribution to 3–3.5% of GDP, up from the current 2%. She noted that the real problem is the tension with the United States and recalled that the current president, Donald Trump, stated that “he doesn’t need anything from Spain.” According to Mellado, this has had significant trade repercussions, affecting Spanish exports such as wine and agricultural products, including tomatoes and grapes, to the U.S. market. She also highlighted that it would be necessary to examine the capacity of the United States to restrict trade with a European Union member, an issue that adds complexity to the economic and diplomatic landscape.
Regarding security, Mellado pointed out that, although the Spanish Prime Minister says he does not wish to fully participate, he is not the only case. She noted that leaders like Keir Starmer in the United Kingdom have taken similar stances. She emphasized that the problem is not Spain itself, but the management of Pedro Sánchez and the Spanish government, which, she said, has created avoidable tensions. Mellado concluded by stressing that despite the challenges, Spain’s continued membership in NATO remains the most likely outcome, while attention should focus on ensuring that the country fulfills its responsibilities within the alliance and maintains strong relations with its strategic partners, especially the United States.
