Spain has refused the United States permission to utilize its jointly operated military bases for operations against Iran, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez explicitly condemning the “unilateral military action” as destabilizing. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that the bases at Rota and Morón would not be used for actions beyond the existing agreement with the US or the UN charter. This stance aligns with Spain’s criticism of military interventions lacking international legal frameworks and support, even as other European nations navigate complex responses to the escalating conflict.
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Fifteen U.S. aircraft, primarily aerial refuelling tankers, have departed from Spanish military bases in Rota and Moron following recent attacks on Iran. Spain’s Foreign Minister stated that its military bases, while jointly operated, are under Spanish sovereignty and will not be utilized for attacks on Iran, a stance Spain has condemned. This position potentially strains relations with Washington, as Spain asserts its bases will only be used in accordance with agreements with the United States and the UN Charter.
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The UK government has outlined its legal justification for permitting the US to utilize its bases. The statement affirms that international law allows the UK and its allies to employ or support the use of force. This is permissible when self-defense is the sole viable response to an ongoing armed attack, and the force applied is both necessary and proportionate.
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Following President Trump’s announcement of a “framework” for a Greenland deal with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, NATO released a statement emphasizing Arctic security among allies. The statement highlighted discussions focusing on preventing Russian and Chinese influence in Greenland, particularly through collective efforts from the seven Arctic allies. The New York Times reported that the deal could involve the United States acquiring sovereignty over specific Greenlandic land areas for potential military bases, an idea reportedly proposed by Rutte. Although Trump provided limited details, he confirmed the deal’s lasting nature and the removal of additional tariffs on Europe.
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Significant upgrades are underway at Pituffik Space Base, the sole U.S. military base in Greenland, with planned improvements to the runway, port maintenance, and facilities. These enhancements coincide with increased attention on Greenland, particularly regarding its strategic importance and resource potential. The base, renamed in 2023, houses personnel who coordinate satellite communications and monitor for ballistic missile launches. While some work is classified, the upgrades are critical for the base’s operations, particularly given the extended periods of darkness and reliance on resupply flights.
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The Canadian Joint Operations Command is studying how to realistically sustain Canada’s NATO deployment in Latvia, with more permanent basing as a possible option. This review, driven by troop shortages and challenges in quickly reinforcing the mission, comes after Prime Minister Mark Carney extended the Canadian mission in Latvia to 2029. Historically, Canada maintained permanent bases in Europe until 1993, and this move would follow Germany’s plans to establish a permanent military presence in Lithuania. A more permanent presence would send a stronger signal of deterrence, but would also require major undertakings that include legal revisions and government and NATO approval.
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Ecuadorian voters rejected a proposal to allow foreign military bases, hindering US hopes for a military presence in the country, despite President Daniel Noboa’s support for the measure. The referendum outcome represents a setback for Noboa, who had sought to reverse a 2008 ban, aiming to combat rising violence and drug trafficking. The US has been increasing its military presence in the region. This vote occurred amid a backdrop of increased regional security concerns and the US’s designation of Ecuador’s Los Lobos gang as a terrorist organization.
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John Q. Hosedrinker