EU shows solidarity with Spain amidst face-off with Trump
Brussels, March 4
President of the European Council Antonio Costa expressed solidarity with Spanish President Pedro Sanchez as he opposed the US-Israeli operations in Iran.
Costa said that the EU stands with its member states.
In a post on X, Costa said, "I have just held a call with President Pedro Sanchez to express the EU's full solidarity with Spain. The EU will always ensure that the interests of its Member States are fully protected. We reaffirm our firm commitment to the principles of international law and the rules-based order everywhere in the world."
Sanchez on Wednesday reiterated his opposition to the US-Israel led attack on Iran saying the West Asia conflict risked playing "Russian roulette" with the lives of millions, reported Reuters.
"This is how humanity's great disasters start ... You cannot play Russian roulette with destiny of millions," Sanchez said in his address to the Spanish people.
"The position of the Spanish government can be summarised in four words: 'No to the war.' We're not going to be complicit in something that's bad for the world nor contrary to our values and interests simply to avoid reprisals from someone," Sanchez added.
On Tuesday (local time), addressing a news conference alongside the German Chancellor, US President Trump said he had asked US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to stop all dealings with Spain.
Spain had earlier criticised the U.S. and Israeli bombings of Iran, calling them reckless and illegal, and later banned U.S. aircraft from using naval and air bases in southern Spain for the offensive against Tehran.
Meanwhile, Iran's state media has reported that Iranians will bid farewell to late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a ceremony later tonight at Tehran's Imam Khomeini prayer ground. The ceremony will last for three days, and the funeral procession will be announced when it is finalised.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting to see the EU stand united. But let's be real, where is this solidarity when it comes to other global issues? The West often has double standards. Respect to Spain for taking a principled stand, but the EU's consistency is questionable.
As someone watching from outside, this is a worrying development. Trump's move to cut financial dealings is a blunt instrument. It hurts ordinary people. The world needs cooler heads to prevail, not more economic warfare.
The timing with the Ayatollah's funeral is very sensitive. This could inflame passions further. India has vital interests in the region - energy security and our diaspora. We need stability, not more fire. Hope our diplomacy is working overtime behind the scenes.
"No to the war" - powerful and simple. Reminds me of our own historical stance on non-alignment and peace. While the geopolitics is complex, the human cost is always clear. Spain banning use of its bases is a significant, concrete step. More countries should show such spine.
The phrase "Russian roulette with the lives of millions" really hits home. It's a stark warning. The international community needs to de-escalate immediately. This isn't just a West Asia problem; the ripple effects on global economy and security will be felt everywhere, including in India.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.