Former Spanish PM Zapatero summoned as High Court probes airline bailout

Spain’s High Court confirmed on Tuesday that it has launched a formal corruption investigation into former Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, focusing on alleged influence peddling surrounding the 2021 state bailout of Plus Ultra airline. The judicial body executed searches at Zapatero’s Madrid office and three other premises, while simultaneously issuing a summons requiring the former premier to testify on 2 June.

The probe centres on the approval of a 53 million euro rescue package for Plus Ultra, disbursed through the state holding company SEPI during the height of the pandemic. Investigators allege that Zapatero, who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2011, acted as the driving force behind the bailout and pressured the Ministry of Transport, then led by Jose Luis Abalos, to approve the funding.

Central to the inquiry are allegations of illicit financial flows linked to businessman Julio Martinez Martinez, known as Julito. Martinez was arrested in late December, an event that significantly escalated the investigation. Suspicion focuses on Analisis Relevante, a company owned by Martinez, which allegedly received 53 million euros—the same sum Plus Ultra later paid to Zapatero. Additionally, Spanish businessman Victor de Aldama, involved in separate corruption probes, has alleged that Zapatero received 10 million euros in commissions.

The bailout has faced sustained criticism regarding its transparency and the financial viability of the airline. Critics have highlighted ownership links between Plus Ultra and Venezuelan businessmen perceived as close to the government of former President Nicolas Maduro, raising concerns about political influence and the propriety of the aid. The court is currently examining whether the aid was properly approved and if improper lobbying influenced the decision.

The investigation has intensified political pressure on current Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, whose administration is already contending with separate corruption allegations involving figures close to the prime minister and investigations into his family members. Juanma Moreno, president of the Andalusian regional government, described the probe as unprecedented, stating that an investigation or indictment of a former president would shake up the government. The conservative opposition People’s Party has utilised the case to sharpen attacks on Sanchez, with whom Zapatero shares political affiliation. Zapatero has previously denied any wrongdoing before a parliamentary committee.