Donald Trump — never one to hold back his opinions, especially when challenged — launched a sharp verbal attack against key NATO allies during a phone interview with The Post on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Speaking amid escalating U.S.-led military action against Iran, Trump criticized both Spain and the United Kingdom for what he described as insufficient support.
‘Spain Is Lost’
Calling Spain “lost,” Trump accused the country of being openly hostile toward NATO. He claimed Madrid refuses to meet its defense spending commitments — specifically referencing the alliance’s goal for members to allocate 5% of GDP to defense. “They’re the only ones who voted against the 5% contribution, and they’re very hostile toward everyone,” he said. “They’re not a team player — and neither will we be with Spain.”
Starmer ‘Not Churchill’
Turning to the UK, Trump expressed deep frustration with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, saying he should have backed the U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran “without any hesitation or doubt.” Trump had earlier reportedly referred to Starmer as “lost” in private conversations — a characterization he confirmed publicly, adding: “Well, he’s not Winston Churchill — let’s put it that way.”
The tension stems from the UK government’s initial refusal to allow U.S. forces to use British military bases for offensive operations in the Iran campaign. Though London later permitted their use for defensive purposes — as Starmer confirmed at a press briefing on March 5 — Trump called the original stance “very disappointing.” He emphasized that the U.S. expected seamless cooperation from its closest ally, particularly given the longstanding U.S.-UK defense partnership.
“It was very disappointing — his position regarding our major operation against a hostile state,” Trump said. “He should have provided us, without any question or hesitation, things like bases we could use.” He added: “I was very surprised by Keir. Very disappointed.”