In a recent survey conducted by the Royal Elcano Institute in May 2025, 55% of Spaniards identified Morocco as the main external threat to their country, placing it ahead of Russia (33%) and the United States (19%). This figure reflects a 6-point increase from 2024, amid ongoing tensions between Madrid and Rabat over issues such as migration, border control, and the Western Sahara conflict, according to Spanish media reports. While 60% of respondents said they do not perceive any direct external threat to Spain's security, 40% believe there is a risk, particularly among right-wing voters (56%), compared to 38% of centrists and 29% of left-wing respondents. Meanwhile, the number of people who view Russia as a threat has declined compared to the previous year. In contrast, the perception of the United States as a threat has seen a sharp rise, from 5% in 2024 to 19% in 2025, largely attributed to Donald Trump's return to the presidency.
