In a stark warning addressed to Spain this week, U.S. Ambassador Benjamin Leon cautioned that the nation must proceed with extreme caution as it deepens its relationships with China to prevent Beijing from penetrating critical sectors including data infrastructure, defense systems, and telecommunications.
Speaking in his first public address since assuming office in February, Leon highlighted concerns over public contracts being awarded to companies linked to Huawei—the Chinese technology giant Washington identifies as posing “an unacceptable risk” to national security. “I don’t believe this meets the security standards required for information exchanged between Spain and the United States,” he stated. “If Spain ensures China is kept out of critical areas, why not negotiate with Beijing? But I see they are already starting to penetrate these sectors—and Spain must be very careful.”
Leon emphasized that China seeks dominance in critical technologies through unfair trade practices and economic coercion, which he said threatens global supply chains, research initiatives, and national security. He urged European nations to safeguard their research, intellectual property, and democratic values. The ambassador noted that China has repeatedly denied U.S. accusations of unfair trade and espionage.
Relations between the Trump administration and Spain’s left-leaning government have also been strained by Madrid’s refusal to meet NATO commitments—specifically raising defense spending to 5% of GDP and permitting U.S. military access to its bases during operations against Iran. In October, President Trump suggested potential economic sanctions against Spain for failing to increase defense expenditures.
Leon acknowledged that Spain had “frustrated” Trump but downplayed immediate risks of U.S. economic or military repercussions. “We will always find a way to work together and improve our relationship,” he said. He described the U.S.-Spanish naval bases in Rota and Moron as “fundamental for our collective defense,” stressing their vulnerability amid fears over planned U.S. troop reductions in Europe.
“We live in very dangerous times. Europe must be prepared to defend itself, and the United States will stand by its allies,” Leon concluded.
