Trump Considers Troop Withdrawal from Italy and Spain Amid NATO Tensions

In a recent statement, President Trump has threatened to withdraw US troops from Italy and Spain, criticizing these nations for their lack of support in military operations related to the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid rising tensions with European allies over the ongoing conflict with Iran. Spain's Prime Minister has openly opposed US military actions, while Italy has also resisted US requests for military cooperation. The situation highlights the fragile state of US-European relations and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for global oil trade. As Trump considers drastic measures, the implications for NATO and international military cooperation remain significant.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 1, 2026, 21:04 IST

US President's Threats Over European Military Support

President Donald Trump has indicated a potential withdrawal of American military personnel from Italy and Spain, following his earlier comments about reducing troop levels in Germany. His statements were made in the context of criticizing several NATO allies in Europe for their lack of support in sending naval forces to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil transportation.

During a press conference on Thursday, Trump expressed his frustration, stating, “Why shouldn’t I? Italy has not been of any help to us and Spain has been absolutely terrible.” These remarks come amid escalating tensions between the United States and certain European nations regarding the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Spain has been particularly vocal against the US-Israeli military actions in Iran, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez consistently opposing the war and emphasizing Spain's commitment to international law in its alliances. Additionally, Spain has denied the US access to its military bases for operations against Iran.

Italy's government also declined to permit US aircraft to utilize the Sigonella airbase in Sicily for weapon deliveries to the Middle East. In response to Trump's criticisms, Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto defended Italy's position, asserting that the country had offered support for maritime security missions and dismissed claims of Italian ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz as baseless. “Italy has made itself available for a mission to protect shipping. This was greatly appreciated by the American military,” Crosetto stated.

Currently, approximately 13,000 US military personnel are stationed in Italy across seven naval bases, with the Sigonella base being a focal point of local protests against increased US military presence. Relations between the US and Italy have soured further after Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized Trump’s public remarks about Pope Leo, who had condemned the war in Iran. Trump retaliated by accusing Meloni of lacking bravery and stated on Truth Social, “Italy wasn’t there for us, we won’t be there for them!”

In Spain, the US operates two significant joint bases — Naval Station Rota and Morón Air Base — both under Spanish command, which are vital for US operations in the Mediterranean and Africa. Spain's refusal to allow these bases to be used for Iran-related military actions has resulted in the relocation of some US aircraft.

Previously, Trump had threatened Spain with a complete trade embargo and has even suggested withdrawing from NATO altogether due to European allies' hesitance to support US initiatives in the Strait of Hormuz. However, a US law enacted in 2024 complicates any presidential attempts to exit the alliance without congressional consent.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most critical chokepoints for oil shipments globally, yet European nations have shown little interest in direct naval involvement in the region amidst the ongoing conflict.