Zapatero Accused of Belonging to a Criminal Organization in the 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 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, anti-corruption police officers reportedly carried out searches at offices and companies linked to individuals involved in the case, including entities connected to Zapatero’s professional environment. Authorities suspect that a network of consulting firms and intermediary companies may have been used to facilitate financial operations and possible commissions tied 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.
Reactions inside the Socialist Party varied widely, as some senior PSOE members voiced backing for Zapatero and advised waiting for the judicial process to progress, while others recognized the gravity of the allegations and the possible political fallout for the government.
The Plus Ultra bailout has long stirred debate in Spain, fueled by doubts about the airline’s financial health, the allocation of public funds, and the alleged political ties revealed throughout the investigation.
Source: Libertad Digital – https://www.libertaddigital.com/espana/politica/2026-05-19/ultima-hora-zapatero-imputado-trafico-de-influencias-en-directo-7406388/
