German Chancellor Merkel, who is visiting the White House, commented on Trump's threat to terminate trade with Spain:
"I have made everything very clear. There is no reason to treat Spain in a particularly bad way on this issue. If we are to achieve some result, we all must achieve it together, and Spain is an inseparable part of it."
Merkel's words were clear: Spain is a member of the EU, and terminating trade with Spain is equivalent to interrupting trade relations with the EU.
Merkel's view clearly states that the U.S. has no justification for its "particularly bad attitude" toward Spain.
She emphasized European unity, and her words "we all must achieve it together" and "an inseparable part" imply that Europe must speak with one voice. If the U.S. penalizes the entire EU due to dissatisfaction with individual countries, the EU will respond with a unified action.
Merkel's statement highlights the coexistence of principle and interest, defending the principle of EU internal unity while also showing a practical stance — Spain is part of the European single market, and the EU will not allow it to be picked off one by one.
This statement was also appreciated by Spain. Spanish Minister of Economy, Trade and Enterprises Querpo responded on social media, saying, "Europe will respond with unity and firmness."
Trump has once again hit a nail on the head.
The United States is indeed powerful, which is widely recognized, but you cannot bully others or act recklessly. There are many things in the world (or even most) that the U.S. cannot control alone — first, your hand is not big enough, second, if others don't listen to you, you can't do anything. I advise you not to be so arrogant!
Original: toutiao.com/article/1858701348751372/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.