Sánchez Defies Trump’s Trade Threat as Middle East War Escalates

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has criticised U.S. President Donald Trump after Washington threatened to cut trade ties with Spain over Madrid’s refusal to assist in American strikes against Iran.

Describing the growing Middle East crisis as dangerously unpredictable, Sánchez warned that global leaders must avoid “playing Russian roulette with the destiny of millions.”

The diplomatic row unfolded as a U.S. submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, leaving at least 87 people dead and many others missing.

At the same time, the United States Embassy Abuja cancelled visa appointments for March 4 over fears of protests in Nigeria’s capital linked to the escalating conflict.

Madrid says ‘No to war’

Sánchez said Spain’s position on the conflict was clear.

“No to war.”

He said his government would not support actions that contradict Spain’s values, even under pressure.

“We will not be complicit in something that is bad for the world and contrary to our values and interests simply out of fear of reprisals from someone.”

Trump had criticised Spain after Madrid declined to allow U.S. forces to use joint bases in southern Spain for attacks against Iran.

Speaking during talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump said he had directed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to halt economic cooperation with Spain.

“Spain has been terrible,” he said.

Trump also criticised British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for refusing to allow the U.S. to use British bases for the strikes.

“This is not Winston Churchill that we’re dealing with,” Trump told reporters.

Naval strike in Indian Ocean

The Iranian frigate IRIS Dena, which had recently participated in the MILAN 2026 multinational naval exercise in India, sank near Sri Lanka after being hit by a U.S. submarine.

Sri Lankan authorities said they had recovered 87 bodies, while 32 survivors were rescued and dozens of sailors remain missing.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the operation, describing it as proof of America’s global military reach.

“An American submarine sunk an Iranian warship that thought it was safe in international waters. Instead, it was sunk by a torpedo.”

Embassy issues security warning

In Nigeria, the U.S. Embassy warned of possible demonstrations linked to the conflict and advised American citizens in Abuja to remain indoors.

“Due to the potential for protests in Abuja, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments on Wednesday, March 4, 2026,” the embassy said.

It also urged Americans to avoid protest areas, monitor local media and remain alert in public spaces.

The tensions follow the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior officials in recent airstrikes on Tehran.

Iran has since fired missiles at U.S. military bases across Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, vowing retaliation.

With the conflict now in its fifth day, global leaders have raised concerns that the crisis could escalate into a prolonged war with serious economic and humanitarian consequences.

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