Trump and Spain's Sanchez meet at World Cup final amid past tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez at the World Cup final, a meeting that highlighted starkly contrasting global outlooks. The two leaders, despite recent diplomatic friction, exchanged cordial greetings at the stadium.

Tensions had simmered for months, primarily over Spain's defense spending and its refusal to allow U.S. aircraft involved in operations against Iran to use Spanish bases. Trump had previously labeled Spain an "awful partner." However, recent weeks saw both nations taking steps toward de-escalation, with Spain committing to increased defense investments and participating in a joint mission in Finland.

The public handshake between Trump and Sánchez marked a second phase of their cautious rapprochement. Earlier, they had met in Ankara, reportedly discussing football and golf. Other world leaders present, including Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, also had strained relationships with Trump due to his protectionist economic policies. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a close ally of Trump, was also in attendance, having made efforts to accommodate the U.S. president throughout the tournament.

Despite the political undertones, the event offered a 90-minute reprieve focused on football. The presence of Sánchez himself was initially uncertain, but he traveled to New York after receiving an invitation from FIFA, underscoring the event's draw.

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Spain was an awful partner.