Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s political landscape has been shaken by Donald Trump’s return to the White House. The rift between the conservative Partido Popular (PP) and the far-right Vox has deepened, as Vox leader Santiago Abascal and other European far-right figures – including Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, Italy’s Matteo Salvini, France’s Marine Le Pen, and the Netherlands’ Geert Wilders – have openly aligned themselves with Trump’s agenda.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has seized this moment to pressure Alberto Núñez Feijóo (PP) to distance himself from Vox. Sánchez has urged Feijóo to sever all ties with Abascal and his party, warning that the far-right movement seriously threatens European stability. He labelled them as “Europe’s real Trojan horse”, arguing that alliances with these groups could destabilise the continent from within.
A shift in global politics
Sánchez warned that Trump’s policies could reshape the world order, stressing that Europe and Spain must prioritise international cooperation. He criticised Feijóo for failing to provide the strong opposition Spain needs, accusing him of opportunism and indecisiveness.
Criticism of the right
The Spanish Prime Minister condemned Trump´s policies proposed tariffs and pledged that his government would support Spanish farmers, businesses, and workers against trade policies that threaten the economy. He also took aim at right-wing parties, accusing them of submissiveness to US interests. Sánchez denounced Feijóo’s reliance on Vox to govern in municipal and regional administrations, warning that such dependence is harmful to both Spain and Europe.
Feijóo and Abascal respond
Feijóo countered Sánchez’s criticism, arguing that “in a national emergency, a government does not wait but acts.” He insisted that Spain’s leadership should focus on action, not rhetoric, and blamed Sánchez for international policies negatively affecting Spain. While distancing himself from Trump’s tariff decisions, Feijóo stated he would not insult the US president either.
Abascal, on the other hand, accused Sánchez of attempting to marginalise his supporters. He dismissed the idea of the PP breaking with Vox, advocating instead for continued cooperation between the two parties.
Call for stronger trade alliances
Sánchez reiterated his commitment to multilateralism and trade partnerships in response to Trump’s economic policies. He cautioned against unilateral actions that could damage global trade. Additionally, he condemned Trump’s stance on immigration and social policies, arguing that they threaten diversity and equality.
A renewed focus on regional politics
Amid these tensions, Sánchez has resumed his tour of regional PSOE congresses, rallying support for a united front against the far-right and Trump’s influence in Europe. He emphasised the importance of a cohesive European response to rising nationalism and populism.
As political divisions deepen, Spain faces crucial decisions on its international alliances and internal party dynamics. Whether Feijóo chooses to heed Sánchez’s call or maintain ties with Vox remains to be seen.
Also read: How Trump´s policies and tariffs could impact Spain