Amidst escalating diplomatic tensions between Washington and Madrid,particularly concerning defense spending,the idea of relocating U.S. bases from Rota and Morón to Morocco has re-emerged. Spanish media outlet vozpopuli reports that this option, reportedly favored by circles close to Donald Trump, faces meaningful hurdles.
The discussion gained traction following a video statement by Robert greenway,a former U.S. senator and Trump ally.Greenway criticized Spain’s stance on increasing defense investments and explicitly suggested, “It’s time to transfer the bases of Rota and Morón to Morocco.”
However, practical challenges impede this proposal. Vozpópuli points to logistical limitations, noting that “Morocco lacks aero-naval military infrastructure equivalent to that of the Rota base, in terms of both reception capacity and logistics.” The transfer of the substantial American forces stationed in Cádiz would be complex, even to a neighboring country.
A second major obstacle stems from Spain’s international commitments, notably its NATO membership. The Rota base is a critical component of the Atlantic Alliance’s defense system, hosting five U.S. destroyers equipped with the AEGIS anti-missile system, integrated into the European NATO anti-missile shield. The alliance’s legal framework prohibits the deployment of such military capabilities in non-member states, effectively excluding Morocco.
A third, more subtle but equally crucial factor is the deep ancient and social connection between Rota and the American military presence. Sence the 1953 Madrid agreements, the base has been home to nearly 3,000 American families, fostering a socio-cultural community integrated into the city.
Beyond these technical and strategic considerations, the broader international political climate adds complexity. relations between Donald Trump and Spanish Prime Minister pedro Sánchez have been strained since Sánchez reportedly reneged on commitments made at the Hague summit to increase Spain’s defense budget to 5% of GDP.
According to Vozpópuli, Trump is contemplating economic retaliatory measures against Spain, such as imposing customs duties or encouraging a boycott of Spanish tourism. However, several American experts cited by the media express doubt about Washington’s ability to initiate a direct trade war with an EU member state.
In this tense surroundings, Morocco is closely monitoring the situation. For Rabat, the Washington-Madrid friction could present a strategic prospect, especially given the strengthening of military and diplomatic cooperation between Morocco and the United States in recent years.
