Businessman implicates former PM Zapatero in Plus Ultra airline rescue probe

Julio Martínez, administrator of the consultancy Análisis Relevante, has offered to cooperate with the Spanish National Court in an investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding a 53 million euro public loan granted to the airline Plus Ultra. Martínez, who is scheduled to testify as an investigated party, submitted a written statement indicating his willingness to "collaborate and contribute to the clarification of the facts."

In his statement, Martínez implicated former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, who is also facing investigation in the case. Martínez claims Zapatero "marked the steps to follow" for securing the rescue funds for the airline, which received government aid after the COVID-19 pandemic. The investigation centers on accusations of criminal organization, influence peddling, and falsehoods related to the loan.

The case involves the Spanish state holding company SEPI, which approved the aid. Zapatero's involvement is a key focus, as prosecutors seek to understand the extent of his influence in the decision-making process for the controversial bailout. The court is examining whether the aid was granted under undue pressure or political influence, rather than purely economic criteria.