Spain’s political landscape has been shaken after former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero became the subject of a judicial investigation tied to alleged influence peddling and financial misconduct. Authorities confirmed that the inquiry is connected to the controversial €53 million government bailout granted to airline Plus Ultra during the pandemic period.
Investigators reportedly searched several locations, including Zapatero’s Madrid office, while the former leader has been summoned to appear before Spain’s High Court in early June. Zapatero has strongly denied all allegations and insists he did not receive improper financial benefits.
High Court Expands Probe Into Airline Bailout
The investigation centers on claims that political influence may have played a role in securing financial support for Plus Ultra, an airline that critics argued lacked sufficient financial strength to qualify for such a large rescue package. Prosecutors are reviewing whether public funds were improperly managed or linked to illegal financial activities.
Court officials confirmed that multiple properties were searched as part of the ongoing operation. Authorities are also examining potential offenses that may include money laundering, document falsification, and criminal organization activities.
Zapatero Denies Wrongdoing
Zapatero, who served as Spain’s prime minister from 2004 to 2011, rejected the accusations and stated that he never received commissions or illegal payments related to Plus Ultra. His allies within Spain’s Socialist political movement have defended his public record and criticized what they describe as politically motivated attacks.
The case marks a rare moment in modern Spanish politics, as it is reportedly the first time a former Spanish prime minister has formally faced a judicial investigation of this scale since the country’s transition to democracy.
Political Pressure Mounts on Sánchez Government
The controversy is also increasing pressure on current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his administration, which has already faced scrutiny from opposition parties over separate corruption-related allegations involving close political associates and family members.
Opposition leaders have demanded greater transparency from the government, while political analysts believe the investigation could intensify debates around corruption, accountability, and the handling of public bailout funds in Spain.
