Former Spanish President Zapatero faces influence-peddling charges over airline bailout

Former Spanish President Jose Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is set to become the first ex-president to testify as a defendant in an influence-peddling case. The scandal, dubbed "Plus Ultra," centers on the controversial 53 million euro rescue of a small airline during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Zapatero, who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2011, is suspected of using his position to secure the bailout for financial gain. Spanish authorities found evidence of a structured network designed to exert influence on public bodies for economic benefit. This network allegedly involved various companies and collaborators, with a society linked to Zapatero's daughters reportedly channeling payments.

Adding to the intrigue, jewels and watches were discovered in Zapatero's office safe. He maintains these are inherited items or gifts. The case gained further traction with revelations from French financial regulators about conversations hinting at a Venezuelan client seeking to launder significant funds. Spanish anti-corruption prosecutors received international cooperation requests regarding the potential use of Plus Ultra's bailout money for this alleged money-laundering scheme.

The opposition parties, PP and Vox, have seized on the Plus Ultra case, filing complaints for alleged embezzlement, malfeasance, and influence peddling. The scandal has intensified political pressure on the current government, especially as separate investigations target the wife and brother of current President Pedro Sánchez, leading to calls for early elections.