Zapatero Charged With Membership in Criminal Group in Plus Ultra Case
Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has been officially named as a subject of investigation by Spain’s National Court in connection with the ongoing judicial probe into the contentious state bailout granted to the airline Plus Ultra, a development that has heightened political friction in Spain and triggered broad reactions across the nation’s political sphere.
According to court proceedings, investigators are examining alleged crimes including membership in a criminal organization, influence peddling, and document falsification connected to the public funds granted to Plus Ultra during the pandemic. The judge overseeing the case believes there are sufficient indications to summon Zapatero for questioning, with his court appearance scheduled for early June.
Throughout the investigation, it was reported that anti-corruption police officers executed searches at various offices and businesses linked to individuals tied to the case, including those associated with Zapatero’s professional sphere, while authorities suspect that a network of consulting and intermediary firms might have been employed to manage financial dealings and potential commissions related to the airline rescue package.
Zapatero publicly refuted any allegation of misconduct, asserting that his professional and financial affairs have consistently adhered to Spanish law. The former Socialist leader likewise dismissed claims that he had leveraged his political influence for private gain and affirmed his readiness to cooperate fully with judicial authorities.
The development immediately triggered strong political reactions. Opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo demanded explanations from Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government, while Vox called for greater political accountability over the scandal. Several regional leaders from the Popular Party described the investigation as deeply damaging for Spain’s institutions.
Reactions within the Socialist Party diverged considerably, with some senior PSOE figures expressing support for Zapatero and calling for patience as the judicial process unfolded, while others admitted the seriousness of the accusations and the potential political repercussions for the government.
The Plus Ultra bailout has long ignited controversy in Spain, driven by persistent questions about the airline’s financial stability, the use of public money, and the purported political connections uncovered during the investigation.
Reference: sourced through Libertad Digital – https://www.libertaddigital.com/espana/politica/2026-05-19/ultima-hora-zapatero-imputado-trafico-de-influencias-en-directo-7406388/
