Sanchez flies to Lanzarote and posts the playlist of the summer, storms on social media: "Are you not ashamed?"

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has sparked controversy after posting a vacation-themed social media video just days after returning from Ceuta, where he addressed the recent migrant influx crisis. The video, shared on August 1st, shows Sánchez relaxed and smiling while introducing his summer music playlist, seemingly brushing aside ongoing political tensions over the situation in North Africa. His actions have drawn sharp criticism from right-wing opponents and some members of the European Parliament, who argue that such behavior is inappropriate given the gravity of the crisis. The Spanish government claims it has effectively managed the migrant crisis in Ceuta, with nearly all 50,000 migrants who crossed into Spain being repatriated to Morocco within two days. Despite this, concerns remain among European leaders, prompting calls for an emergency meeting of EU interior ministers. Sánchez’s decision to travel directly to Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, for a holiday until late August has further fueled criticism. Local media confirmed his arrival on the island, where he plans to spend time with his family. In the video, Sánchez appears in high spirits, sharing three songs from his Spotify playlist, “El Baifo” by Quevedo, “SS26” by Charli XCX, and “Tantas Cosas” by Melani. He described the selection as his favorite music for the summer and wished his followers a good season. This casual approach has been met with outrage online, with users questioning whether Sánchez was mocking public concern over the migrant crisis. Some called him out for appearing indifferent to the situation, while others demanded his resignation. Right-wing politicians have seized on the moment to criticize Sánchez's leadership. Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the Popular Party, traveled to Ceuta and accused the government of failing in its migration policy, security measures, and foreign relations. He labeled the mass arrival of migrants as a “premeditated occupation.” Santiago Abascal, head of the far-right Vox party, is set to visit Ceuta later in the week and has claimed the migrant influx proves that Spaniards were abandoned by the government. Nicola Procaccini, an Italian MEP from the League party, criticized Sánchez’s video as “surreal,” highlighting the contrast between the prime minister’s leisure activities and the urgent discussions taking place in the European Parliament. Procaccini questioned whether Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Elly Schlein would consider Sánchez a suitable role model for European leadership. The incident underscores the growing divide between left-leaning and right-leaning factions in Europe regarding how to handle migration issues. Public reaction has been mixed, with many supporters of Sánchez defending his actions, arguing that taking vacations is normal even during challenging times. Others believe the prime minister should focus more on addressing the migrant crisis rather than promoting personal interests. Meanwhile, opposition parties continue to push for stronger action against the perceived failures of the current administration. As the debate continues, the situation in Ceuta remains a focal point for European politics. While the Spanish government insists it has resolved the immediate issue, critics argue that deeper systemic problems persist. With political figures from across the spectrum weighing in, the controversy surrounding Sánchez’s vacation post is likely to remain a topic of discussion in the coming weeks.