Acting Defense Minister Margarita Robles aligned with Josep Borrell, the EU’s top diplomat, as they reiterated a firm stance on Israel’s response to Hamas attacks. They underscored that international law must be upheld in all circumstances, with no exceptions or nuanced loopholes. Borrell stated that actions must always fall within the boundaries of international law and the rules of war, speaking to reporters at a gathering at the Atlantic Alliance headquarters.
Robles echoed this message, standing with the EU foreign policy chief as he warned from Oman that certain Israeli decisions could face obstacles. He emphasized that disruptions such as water supply failures, power outages, or food blockages would be incompatible with international law. The remarks reflected a tougher tone than that of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who had previously urged support for Israel’s right to defend itself without outlining specific restraints.
Robles highlighted the need for a clear, principled response from all parties. He described the recent events as a terrorist attack and stressed that Spain cannot remain neutral in the face of such aggression. The remarks included a note of solidarity with the family of Maya Villalobo, a Spanish-Israeli teenager who was killed in Hamas attacks.
Spanish contribution
The Defense Minister spoke during a new gathering of defense ministers alongside NATO partners and at the sixteenth meeting of the Ramstein-style contact group, a U.S.-led forum designed to coordinate military aid to Ukraine. The session also featured a surprise appearance by Volodymyr Zelensky. Robles confirmed a commitment that Deputy Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had conveyed in Granada the week before, reaffirming Spain’s ongoing support for Ukraine’s defense needs.
In concrete terms, Spain announced the deployment of six additional Hawk air defense launchers to complement six already sent, forming part of a U.S.-based battery arrangement. The country also signaled the shipment of 30 automatic weapons equipped to counter drones, along with substantial quantities of 105 mm and 155 mm ammunition. Robles noted that Spain would continue training Ukrainian personnel on its soil, stressing that more than two thousand Ukrainian soldiers are currently receiving instruction with the goal of reaching four thousand. He also highlighted the delivery of eight electric generators to Kyiv to bolster winter resilience, underscoring the importance of reliable equipment in the face of harsh weather conditions and potential supply shortfalls.
Robles framed these steps within a broader, action-oriented approach to transatlantic security, promising sustained material support while advocating for a unified European stance. The emphasis remained on operational readiness, rapid aid delivery, and the coordination mechanisms that keep allies aligned under shifting geopolitical pressures, with Spain positioning itself as a steadfast ally in the defense of democratic norms and international law. The conversation reflected a shared belief that allied unity and timely assistance are crucial to deterring aggression and stabilizing conflict zones in the region.