Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles expressed concerns over the possibility of NATO troops being sent to Ukraine, stating that such an action would be an unacceptable escalation of the ongoing conflict with Russia. During a gathering organized by the German ambassador to Madrid, Robles emphasized that Spain is against this idea while still respecting the position of other European countries such as France.
The Spanish Defense Minister acknowledged the grave state of global security, pointing out that ballistic missiles “know no borders,” making the current situation the most dangerous since World War II. Robles urged caution in order to avoid providing reasons for Russia to escalate the conflict further.
French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed sending troops to Ukraine as instructors, aiming to support the nation without escalating tensions. However, Robles emphasized that NATO’s priority from the beginning of the hostilities has been not to escalate the conflict while still providing assistance to Ukraine.
The United States and its allies have provided nearly $120 billion worth of weapons, equipment, and ammunition to Ukraine in the past two years, according to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy in Germany. While this support is aimed at helping Ukraine defend itself without making any nation a party to the conflict, Russia has warned that this material assistance may lead to unintended consequences.
Spain, for its part, has supplied defensive weapons and equipment to Ukraine. The country is currently working on repairs for a new batch of Leopard main battle tanks, which will be sent to Kiev soon. Additionally, Spain is training about 6,000 Ukrainian soldiers in various combat techniques, including hand-to-hand combat and making tourniquets.
Last month, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez signed a security pact with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, pledging more than €1 billion ($1.08 billion) worth of military aid to Ukraine over the next few years. This support includes the delivery of Patriot air defense missiles, Leopard 2A4 tanks, and ammunition.