Trump Threatens to Withdraw U.S. Troops From Italy and Spain as Europe Rift Widens
President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw U.S. troops from Italy and Spain, accusing both countries of failing to support the U.S. during the Iran conflict, despite their contributions and offers of assistance. Italy's Defense Minister and Prime Minister pushed back, defending their country's stance and criticizing Trump's remarks, especially after he insulted Pope Leo. The tensions reflect a broader rift between the U.S. and key European allies amid the Middle East crisis and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres warning of severe global economic consequences.
- ▪Trump said he 'probably will' withdraw troops from Italy and Spain, citing lack of support during the Iran war.
- ▪As of December 2025, there were 12,662 U.S. troops in Italy and 3,814 in Spain.
- ▪Italy denied use of a Sicilian airbase over procedural issues, and Spain denied U.S. military access and closed its airspace for Iran strikes.
- ▪Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez called U.S. and Israeli strikes 'illegal,' drawing Trump's ire.
- ▪UN Secretary-General Guterres warned of worsening global economic impacts due to Strait of Hormuz disruptions.
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President Donald Trump said “yeah, I probably will,” when asked whether he would consider pulling U.S. troops from Italy and Spain. “Why shouldn't I? Italy has not been of any help to us and Spain has been horrible. Absolutely horrible,” he replied, doubling down on his argument that NATO allies have not supported the U.S. during the Iran war.“We helped them [Europe] with Ukraine… but when we needed them, they were not there. We have to remember that.”As of December 2025, there were 12,662 U.S. active-duty personnel stationed in Italy and 3,814 in Spain, according to data from the U.S. Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC).While Spain has yet to respond to Trump mulling over the troops, Italy’s Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has pushed back.“I wouldn't understand the reasons behind it.
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