The Spanish government says US President Donald Trump has eased his criticism of Spain after being informed of Madrid’s increased contribution to NATO defence spending.

Trump had earlier described Spain as a “terrible partner” and threatened to halt trade with the country over disagreements on defence commitments and the alliance’s spending targets.

Spain said it has met NATO’s previous two-percent defence spending target, while Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez played down the dispute, describing his meeting with Trump at the summit as cordial