The controversy surrounding WhatsApp messages between Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and former minister José Luis Ábalos has become a hot topic in Spanish politics. Sánchez believes the leaks of their private conversations constitute a crime. In response, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of the Popular Party, has accused Sánchez of corruption related to the Air Europa rescue during the pandemic.

The leaked messages, published in El Mundo, indicate discussions in which Sánchez and Ábalos expressed reluctance regarding IAG’s acquisition of Air Europa, citing concerns about the British ownership. Sánchez called for a review of how the rescue should be conducted. He emphasised the transparency of the rescue process, asserting that it was approved by Brussels and backed by the Court of Auditors.

During a session of parliamentary control, Sánchez asserted that Feijóo is exploiting this leak for political gain, labelling the situation a ‘crime’ in itself. He criticized Feijóo’s political tactics and warned about the continuous strategy of judicialization, misinformation and tensions fostered by the opposition.

In a lively exchange, Feijóo accused Sánchez of corruption, asserting that he was aware of all dealings involving Ábalos. Politicians across party lines have weighed in, with issues relating to energy policy and the speculated interests in the Ukrainian conflict also coming to the forefront during discussions.