Feijóo believes that Felipe VI "wants to go to Ceuta" and asks the Government to "authorize" the king's first trip to the city

Isabel Díaz Ayuso, President of the Community of Madrid, has reiterated her stance on the controversy surrounding the purchase and subsequent sale of a luxury apartment in Madrid, stating she does not require an official residence ahead of regional elections scheduled for October. During an unscheduled press conference held Monday, Ayuso addressed ongoing media scrutiny over the high-profile property transaction while shifting focus to the aftermath of wildfires in the region and the growing crisis in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave on the North African coast. Ayuso’s remarks came after weeks of intense political pressure regarding the acquisition of the apartment in Chamberí, which was bought by the regional government through its public entity Planifica Madrid for approximately €6.3 million and later sold for €6.7 million. The purchase had been justified by officials as necessary for holding meetings during renovations in Madrid's historic district of Sol. However, critics have questioned the need for such a costly asset given that many other regional leaders and ministers already have official residences. The president acknowledged the media's persistent questions on the matter, accusing journalists of relying on the same arguments each time they return from vacation. She emphasized her commitment to addressing the impact of recent wildfires in the Sierra de Guadarrama area, visiting affected towns like San Martín de Valdeiglesias and speaking directly with residents. During one such visit, Ayuso stated she has not needed nor requested an official residence since taking office, adding that she would not need one within ten months of the upcoming elections. Ayuso’s comments were part of a broader strategy to redirect attention away from the controversy, focusing instead on criticizing the national government led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. She accused Sánchez of neglecting Spain's challenges while enjoying his holidays, citing concerns over the influx of migrants into Ceuta, which has resulted in numerous deaths and potential health risks. While these claims lack specific data or evidence, Ayuso framed them as urgent issues requiring immediate action. In addition to her criticisms of the central government, Ayuso has faced internal scrutiny within her own party, the Popular Party (PP). Vicesecretary of Institutional Renewal, Cuca Gamarra, stated that Ayuso has provided all possible explanations regarding the apartment controversy, suggesting there is nothing further to disclose. This assertion appears aimed at limiting further questioning from the media and reinforcing the narrative that the issue has been adequately addressed. Ayuso’s recent public appearances have increasingly focused on social media platforms, where she promotes initiatives related to post-fire recovery efforts and highlights the challenges in Ceuta. Her presence on these platforms has grown more frequent, particularly on X, where she shares updates on administrative actions and policy responses to current crises. These digital engagements complement her sporadic press conferences, which often include pointed critiques against the national administration. During one of her visits to areas affected by the wildfires, the official account of the Community of Madrid posted a video featuring Ayuso promoting a restaurant in Pelayos de la Presa. The establishment previously featured symbols associated with the Franco era, although the owner claimed these had been removed following the change in ownership. The promotion sparked criticism, with some suggesting the move could be perceived as aligning with certain ideological stances. Despite this, Ayuso continued to emphasize her focus on practical governance and crisis management rather than engaging in political maneuvering. As the regional election approaches, Ayuso's approach continues to blend defensive rhetoric regarding past decisions with proactive engagement on pressing issues affecting Madrid and beyond. Her ability to maintain this balance will likely remain a key factor in shaping both public perception and political outcomes in the coming months.