Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez made a statement in Brussels aimed at easing tensions between his party and Sumar. According to him, despite their differences, both political groups share many common goals, and their cooperation should continue until the end of the current legislature in 2027. Sánchez emphasized that disagreements between the parties are natural, as they represent different political cultures, but this does not prevent them from working together in the country’s best interest.
At the same time, Sumar representatives insist that ignoring their demands would be irresponsible. They believe the government must take their warnings and proposals seriously. In recent days, Sumar has been calling for changes in the government lineup, citing scandals involving corruption and sexual harassment within the ranks of the socialists. According to Sumar, these changes are necessary to relaunch the coalition’s work and restore public trust.
Response to the criticism
Sánchez rejected the idea of government reshuffles proposed by Sumar. He stated that the coalition is currently focused on discussing an increase in the minimum wage and other issues important to citizens. According to him, these topics are the basis for unity between PSOE and Sumar, despite ongoing disagreements on certain matters.
The Prime Minister also sought to deescalate the conflict, despite the dissatisfaction of some Socialist ministers with the position of Yolanda Díaz and her supporters. Sánchez indicated he does not see grounds for a serious government crisis and expects continued cooperation.
Rise of the Far Right
During his speech, Sánchez addressed the growing popularity of the far-right Vox party. He stated that responsibility for this does not lie with the current government, but with the Partido Popular (PP) and so-called ‘right-wing’ media. According to the Prime Minister, they are the ones legitimizing far-right ideas and helping spread them among voters.
Sánchez emphasized that his coalition allies should not be equated with the far right. He recalled that the Communist Party, formerly part of Unidas Podemos and now in Sumar, played a key role in the fight against Francoism and the country’s democratization, whereas Vox, in his words, remains a party nostalgic for the dictatorship.
Sumar’s Position
While Sánchez is showing readiness for dialogue, Sumar is awaiting the upcoming meeting, which is expected to clarify the future of the coalition agreement. Deputy Toni Valero stated that the situation in the country requires PSOE to take the internal crisis seriously. He warned that ignoring Sumar’s demands could further strain relations within the coalition.
Valero noted that a joint meeting will be key, where both sides can assess the state of the coalition agreement. According to him, only after that can further steps and possible changes to the government structure be discussed.
Looking Ahead
In the coming days, a joint meeting between PSOE and Sumar representatives is expected to discuss ways out of the current situation. Both sides acknowledge their differences but are not yet ready to break ties. Sánchez continues to stress the importance of unity and teamwork, while Sumar insists its positions be considered and remains open to further negotiations.
Domestic political tensions persist, but both sides continue to show a willingness to seek compromise for the sake of government stability and fulfilling their commitments to voters.
