Zapatero Charged With Membership in Criminal Group in Plus Ultra Case
Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has been formally placed under investigation by Spain’s National Court as part of the judicial inquiry surrounding the controversial state bailout of airline Plus Ultra. The case has intensified political tensions in Spain and sparked widespread reactions across the country’s political landscape.
According to court filings, investigators are reviewing alleged offenses such as involvement in a criminal organization, influence trafficking, and document forgery linked to the public funds awarded to Plus Ultra during the pandemic, and the judge in charge considers there is enough evidence to call Zapatero in for questioning, with his hearing set 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 denied any wrongdoing and insisted that all of his professional and financial activities have always complied with Spanish law. The former Socialist leader also rejected accusations that he used his political influence to benefit private interests and stated that he would fully cooperate 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.
Within the Socialist Party, reactions were mixed. Some senior PSOE figures expressed support for Zapatero and urged caution until the judicial process advances further. Others acknowledged the seriousness of the accusations and the potential political consequences for the government.
The Plus Ultra bailout has remained a controversial issue in Spain for years due to questions surrounding the airline’s financial situation, the use of public money, and alleged political connections uncovered during the investigation.
Reference: via Libertad Digital – https://www.libertaddigital.com/espana/politica/2026-05-19/ultima-hora-zapatero-imputado-trafico-de-influencias-en-directo-7406388/
