Anti-War Protesters in Spain Back Sánchez in Confrontation with Trump

Associated Press
Associated PressApr 25, 2026

Why It Matters

The protest highlights a potential shift in Spanish public opinion that could challenge NATO cohesion and influence EU‑U.S. security dynamics.

Key Takeaways

  • Protesters rally against NATO, labeling it a war‑making tool.
  • Demonstrators firmly endorse Prime Minister Sánchez’s anti‑war position.
  • Speakers accuse the U.S. of dominating NATO and violating democracy.
  • Calls for Spain to reconsider NATO membership amid escalating global tensions.
  • Anti‑war sentiment tied to opposition against Trump’s foreign policy agenda.

Summary

The video captures a street demonstration in Spain where anti‑war activists voiced support for Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez as he confronts U.S. President Donald Trump’s foreign‑policy stance.

Protesters denounced NATO as a “war‑making tool” controlled by the United States, arguing that Spain should reevaluate its membership. They praised Sánchez’s explicit opposition to the conflict in Ukraine and his calls for diplomatic solutions, positioning his government as a counter‑weight to Washington’s militarism.

Speakers quoted, “NATO only serves to attack and create conflict,” and declared the war “illegal under international law.” The crowd linked these remarks to broader criticism of Trump, portraying his administration as the driving force behind the aggression.

The demonstration underscores growing domestic pressure on Madrid to reassess its security alliances and could fuel a broader European debate on NATO’s relevance. If Sánchez leverages this sentiment, it may reshape Spain’s diplomatic posture and affect EU‑U.S. coordination on defense matters.

Original Description

A Pentagon email was recently leaked suggesting that Spain should be expelled from NATO for failing to cooperate with the United States in its war against Iran. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has refused to allow U.S. forces involved in the war to use bases on its territory or airspace.
(AP video shot by Alicia Leon)
This video may be available for archive licensing via https://newsroom.ap.org/home

Comments

Want to join the conversation?

Loading comments...