A DAO assistant from the Civil Guard states that the heads of Balas refused to feel pressured by internal investigations
A commander serving as secretary to the Deputy Operations Director (DAO) of the Spanish National Police has testified before the National Court that two officers under Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Balas denied feeling pressured by internal investigations into leaks. The testimony came during an inquiry into alleged leaks involving journalists, with Balas leading the investigation into the case of Leire Díez. According to the commander, the generals changed their statements when questioned later by Balas, who previously served under them. One theory suggests that General Director of the National Police, Mercedes González, initiated three internal investigations influenced by Leire Díez, with whom she reportedly met twice. González explained these investigations were triggered by media revelations about the president’s emails, WhatsApp messages between government members, and a newspaper cover implying the DAO was a pawn of another official. Only one of the three investigations led to formal testimony from former UCO head Rafael Yuste and Police Judicial chief Alfonso López Malo, both of whom initially denied feeling pressured but later claimed they did when questioned by Balas. Both Y
A Spanish judge has accepted the complaints filed by the conservative Popular Party (PP) and the far-right Vox regarding the government's rescue package for Air Europa, marking a significant legal step in an ongoing investigation into potential administrative misconduct. The Juzgado de Instrucción número 49 in Madrid has admitted these complaints, which allege a possible case of administrative negligence related to a 475 million euro loan granted to the airline in November 2020. As part of this process, the judge has ordered the vice-president of the Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (SEPI), Bartolomé Lora, to appear as an investigated person on July 3rd.
The judge, José María Escribano, stated in his ruling that the complaints meet the requirements set forth by the Law of Criminal Procedure and therefore have been accepted for further processing. He emphasized that since the nature of the alleged facts, their circumstances, and the individuals involved have yet to be determined, preliminary investigations must be conducted before deciding on the appropriate procedural course. Almost all of the requests made by the PP were approved by the court, including the requirement to investigate whether the conditions for granting the rescue loan were met.
In addition to summoning Lora, the judge requested the SEPI and the Fund for Supporting the Solvency of Strategic Enterprises (FASEE) to provide specific documents and data. These include the complete dossier on the rescue operation, audit reports, all relevant emails, financing contracts, and detailed information about the management board that participated in decisions regarding the airline’s rescue. This request aims to uncover the full extent of the decision-making process and ensure transparency in how the funds were allocated.
Bartolomé Lora was appointed as vice-president of the SEPI in 2017 by Cristóbal Montoro, a member of the PP, and has remained in that position under the current government led by Pedro Sánchez. During a Senate hearing, Lora claimed that he had never received pressure from any government members to allocate loans to certain companies, stating that the procedures followed were based on European and national regulations, ensuring rigor and valuation. However, the PP's complaint highlights concerns over the compliance of Air Europa with the necessary criteria for receiving such financial support.
According to the PP's complaint, Air Europa did not meet the legal requirements for the rescue loan because, as reported by media outlets, its parent company, Globalia, held approximately 5.8 million euros in tax debt as of December 31, 2019, stemming from inspections related to Value Added Tax between 2012 and 2015. Despite these issues, the SEPI obtained a favorable report from the State Attorney's Office, which raised questions about the thoroughness of the review process.
The PP also pointed out that the financial support was not directly given to the operational airline but instead went through Air Europa Holding SLU, a "interposed company" that lacked actual activity, employees, and revenue generation. It functioned solely as a vehicle for holding shares, potentially circumventing regulatory scrutiny. Furthermore, the rescue package was structured in two distinct phases to avoid the need for prior approval from the European Commission, according to the PP's argument.
The PP argues that the actions taken constitute the crime of administrative negligence, citing what they describe as an arbitrary resolution made by a public authority or official aware of its injustice. They emphasize that the Council of the FASEE was the administrative body responsible for instructing and deciding whether the company met the required conditions. This council, described as an inter-ministerial collegiate body attached to the Ministry of Finance, played a crucial role in the final decision-making process regarding the rescue of Air Europa.
The judge's request for documentation includes identifying all individuals who participated in meetings concerning the rescue of Air Europa, both members of the Council and invited guests, along with comprehensive records of all discussions and communications. Additionally, the SEPI is asked to provide detailed information on the financial operations, including correspondence with government offices, internal notes, executive summaries, and meeting minutes from December 1, 2019, to December 31, 2020. The SEPI is also required to submit the agenda of the president of the Council and related convocations.
The PP's complaint specifically outlines the conditions that should have been met for Air Europa to qualify for the rescue, including not being in a state of crisis as of December 31, 2019, having economic difficulties directly caused by the pandemic rather than structural issues, and lacking debts to the Treasury or Social Security. They argue that despite these conditions, the rescue was granted without verifying these prerequisites thoroughly. The PP contends that Globalia, the parent company, maintained substantial tax debt, which could have disqualified the company from receiving such financial assistance.
Go to the primary sources (1)
The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.
The Supreme Court has ruled that the Spanish state must pay 2.5 million euros in compensation to Ahmed Tommouhi, who spent 15 years in prison for rape charges he was later acquitted of due to a judicial error. The court overturned a previous decision by the National Court that had denied compensation, stating there was a 'qualified mistake' characterized by the omission of an objective forensic test, which was incompatible with the incriminating hypothesis and could have determined the verdict.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual summary of a legal ruling without overtly favoring any political side. It focuses on the judicial process and the court's reasoning rather than taking a stance on broader political issues.
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 90): This article provides detailed legal reasoning from the Supreme Court's decision, including specific terms like 'equivocación cualificada' and the grounds for overturning the previous ruling. It is highly factual and maintains a neutral tone throughout.
20minutosIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 9015 days ago
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed empathy towards the daughters of former Prime Minister José Luis Zapatero following their involvement in an ongoing legal case. Sánchez stated, 'Let us hope everything can be clarified.'
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a statement made by a political figure regarding another individual's legal situation. The content does not exhibit clear bias through language, sourcing, or emphasis.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): This article presents the PSOE’s official stance supporting Zapatero, which aligns with the primary source. It is factual and maintains a balanced, objective tone.
elDiario.esIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 9015 days ago
Judge José Luis Calama of the National Court has decided to investigate the daughters of former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, Alba and Laura Rodríguez Espinosa, as well as their secretary, Gertrudis Alcázar, in connection with the 'Plus Ultra' case. The decision was made at the request of the Anti-Corruption Prosecution, which asked Calama to question them as suspects rather than witnesses. The judge stated this approach aims to protect their constitutional rights and ensure procedural guarantees. There is no set date yet for their questioning. Calama noted there are 'rational'
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information without overtly biased language or selective sourcing. It reports on judicial actions and legal proceedings without apparent ideological framing.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Comprehensive and accurate report on the imputation of Zapatero's daughters and secretary. The article presents the facts in a balanced and neutral manner.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 9017 days ago
The Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) has informed National Court Judge Santiago Pedraz that it notified lawyer Jacobo Teijelo, a suspected member of the Leire Díez network, via a burofax nearly a year ago that it would not pay two invoices totaling 53,000 euros. These invoices were issued by Teijelo for legal consultancy services provided to the PSOE. The National Police’s Central Operational Unit (UCO) has stated that there is no record of these invoices in the documents submitted by the PSOE during their investigation into a potential criminal organization aimed at undermining investigations.
Bias read (Center): The article presents facts without overtly favoring any side. It reports on the PSOE's communication with an investigator regarding unpaid invoices linked to a legal case involving alleged criminal activity. The tone remains neutral, focusing on procedural details and the absence of documentation.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): This article discusses the Supreme Court's ruling on corruption, emphasizing its impact on democracy. It accurately summarizes the court's message and remains objective in its reporting.
El MundoIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 9019 days ago
The article reports that former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has been formally investigated by the Economic and Tax Crime Unit (UDEF) of the Police for alleged involvement in the Plus Ultra case. He faces charges including money laundering, influence peddling, tax evasion, and smuggling related to valuable jewelry found in his office safe. The investigation was expedited after an appraisal valued the jewels at over 1.3 million euros.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information without overtly biased language or selective sourcing. It reports on legal proceedings against a high-profile individual without apparent ideological framing or emotional tone.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): This article closely mirrors the primary source, discussing Ayuso’s stance against Feijóo’s approach to Junts and her views on avoiding 'dictaduras minoritarias.' It accurately reflects the positions and quotes from Ayuso and Aznar, maintaining objectivity.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 9023 days ago
The lawyer for former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has asked the National Court judge overseeing the Plus Ultra case to request more information from the United States regarding the circumstances under which the mobile phone of airline owner Rodolfo Reyes was seized in 2021. The defense claims there has been insufficient transparency from the judge and police regarding the phone’s seizure, verification, and custody. They argue that without full details about the device, its seizure method, the authenticity of communications, and how the data was handled by U.S. law-enfor
Bias read (Center): The article presents the legal arguments made by Zapatero's defense team without overtly favoring either side. It quotes their concerns about lack of transparency but does not present counterarguments or perspectives from the prosecution or judicial authorities. However, it remains neutral in tone,
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): This article closely follows the details from the primary source regarding Zapatero’s legal defense and the request for more information from the US. It presents the facts objectively without bias.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 8811 days ago
The Spanish Supreme Court has sentenced former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos to 24 years and three months in prison for crimes including organized crime, bribery, misappropriation, and influence peddling, though he will serve a maximum of 16 years and six months. His former advisor, Koldo García, received 19 years and eight months (with a maximum of 15 years), while businessman Víctor de Aldama was sentenced to four years and six months but was released under certain conditions, including community service and avoiding further criminal activity. The case involves alleged corruption during the purchase of masks during the pandemic under Ábalos' tenure. This conviction marks a significant moment for Spain’s Socialist Party (PSOE), as Ábalos was once a prominent figure within the party. The court imposed harsher sentences than requested by prosecutors, highlighting the severity of the charges against Ábalos and García.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the legal outcome of a high-profile corruption case involving a former senior member of the ruling PSOE party. It provides factual details of the convictions, their implications for the party, and contextualizes the severity of the sentences compared to previous cases. The tone,
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 88): Factual account of Ábalos’ sentencing, consistent with the primary source. Objectively presents the significance of the ruling without taking sides.
El MundoIndependent🔒RightFactual 95Objective 8510 days ago
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of Spain's opposition People's Party (PP), has launched a strong attack against Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez during his address to Congress. The speech comes just two days after the Supreme Court handed down a harsh sentence against José Luis Ábalos, Sánchez's former minister and close ally, who was found guilty of corruption. Feijóo accused Sánchez of being responsible for a 'criminal network' operating within the government and criticized his credibility in fighting corruption. He argued that Sánchez's attempts to show commitment to anti-corruption measures—such as past plans introduced after scandals involving his wife and other allies—are insufficient. Feijóo emphasized that the simplest path would be for Sánchez to avoid wrongdoing altogether, suggesting that continued legal scrutiny of the government is inevitable unless he steps down. The PP believes Sánchez will try to deflect blame by referencing past corruption cases involving the PP itself, such as Gürtel and Púnica, as well as recent controversies involving regional leaders like Madrid’s Isabel Díaz Ayuso.
Bias read (Right): The article frames Sánchez as complicit in a 'criminal network' operating within the government and criticizes his credibility in addressing corruption. It emphasizes Feijóo's accusations and portrays Sánchez's efforts to combat corruption as insincere or ineffective. The tone is confrontational and
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): This article accurately reports the Supreme Court's sentencing of Ábalos and others, citing official rulings. It maintains a neutral tone and provides clear, factual information without overt bias.
El PaísIndependent🔒LeftFactual 95Objective 8511 days ago
The Spanish Supreme Court has announced the verdict in the first trial of the 'Koldo' case, which involves allegations of bid-rigging during the purchase of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. The court sentenced former minister José Luis Ábalos to 24 years in prison, his advisor Koldo García to 19 years, and businessman Víctor de Aldama to four and a half years. However, the execution of Aldama's sentence was suspended due to his contribution to uncovering the crimes. Aldama expressed satisfaction with the ruling and encouraged others to cooperate with justice. The PSOE criticized the suspension of Aldama's sentence, emphasizing that those who commit crimes should face consequences, while condemning the actions of Ábalos, García, and Aldama for undermining the principles upheld by the government.
Bias read (Left): The article highlights criticism from the PSOE, a leftist party, regarding the leniency shown to Aldama, emphasizing their stance that those who commit crimes should face consequences. The framing underscores the political implications of the legal decision and aligns with the PSOE's position, which
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): This article accurately reports on the Supreme Court ruling in the Koldo case and the PSOE’s criticism of Aldama’s suspended sentence. The tone is somewhat critical of Aldama but remains objective overall.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 8516 days ago
Following three hours of testimony by former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero at the National Court, Judge José Luis Calama rejected requests from the Anti-Corruption Prosecution and the Popular Party (PP) to revoke Zapatero’s passport, prohibit him from leaving Spain, and require his appearance every 15 days. The judge stated that Zapatero’s public visibility and strong ties to Spain eliminate any reasonable risk of flight. However, he noted that Zapatero’s statements have not dispelled the rational indications of criminality surrounding him. Calama emphasized that there is
Bias read (Center): The article presents the judge's decision and reasoning without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from the judge and mentions the positions of both the prosecution and the accused, maintaining a balanced tone.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): This article clearly outlines the new investigation into Zapatero related to the jewels found in his office, providing factual details about the charges and procedural steps taken by the judge.
El MundoIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 8516 days ago
The pressure on Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez continues to grow as legal cases involving his party and close circle add to demands for early elections. The PNV, a key coalition partner, has joined forces with other parties including the PP, Vox, Junts, and UPN, forming a bloc of 185 seats demanding Sánchez call for elections if the budget proposal fails. The PNV is willing to give Sánchez one last chance by supporting him until he presents the budget, which they believe is essential for the government's legitimacy.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on political developments without overtly favoring any side. It provides information on the growing pressure on Sánchez and the positions of various political groups without using biased language or selective sourcing.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Detailed and accurate report on the PP voter survey regarding Feijóo’s potential motion of censure. Maintains neutrality despite discussing political divisions within the party.
El PaísIndependent🔒LeftFactual 95Objective 8517 days ago
The Spanish government has been cautious in handling judicial investigations involving both the PSOE party and President Pedro Sánchez’s family, but makes exceptions when it comes to Judge Juan Carlos Peinado and the case against Begoña Gómez. The government has criticized Peinado for alleged political bias, and the Prime Minister’s spokesperson stated that revoking Gómez’s passport would be unacceptable. Peinado previously rejected such a measure in November 2024, but the possibility remains under consideration after a preliminary hearing in the ongoing case.
Bias read (Left): The article frames Judge Peinado as biased and politically motivated, citing criticism from the government and references to the PSOE and President Sánchez’s family. It highlights the government’s opposition to actions by Peinado, suggesting a preference for protecting high-profile figures within a左
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): This article accurately reports on the legal proceedings involving Begoña Gómez and references the primary source’s mention of judicial issues. It remains objective by focusing on facts rather than political bias.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 8518 days ago
The UCO (Unidad Central Operativa) of the Spanish National Police has discovered a document titled 'incumplimientos' among the papers belonging to former PSOE (Spanish Socialist Workers' Party) secretary Santos Cerdán. The document was found on the computer of Leire Díez, a former socialist activist, and is interpreted by investigators as evidence supporting Cerdán's alleged leadership role in a scheme aimed at gathering information to undermine legal cases affecting the party and the government. The document was located in boxes stored in the basement of the PSOE headquarters on Ferraz Street
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual findings from an ongoing investigation without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the discovery of documents and their interpretation by law enforcement, maintaining neutrality in tone and content.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports on the UCO findings related to Santos Cerdán and Leire Díez, aligning with the primary source. However, it presents some subjective interpretation of the documents found, slightly affecting objectivity.
El PaísIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 8523 days ago
The Congress approved the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Spain and France, known as the Barcelona Treaty, despite opposition from the PP and Vox parties. The treaty had been stalled since May 2025 when it was rejected in a full session of the Congress. It now passes with 20 votes in favor and 17 against, after JxCat and Podemos changed their stance from abstention to support. Final approval by the lower house is scheduled for next week.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of the legislative process regarding the treaty, without evident ideological framing or biased language. It reports on the voting outcomes and procedural steps objectively.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports the approval of the Spain-France treaty, citing specific votes and procedural steps. The tone remains largely neutral despite mentioning opposing parties.
El MundoIndependent🔒LeftFactual 95Objective 8524 days ago
Arnaldo Otegi, leader of EH Bildu, continues to support Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez despite multiple corruption cases involving the PSOE and its allies. Otegi criticizes the Guardia Civil's UCO unit as part of a 'political operation,' defends Santos Cerdán, aligns with former socialist officials' arguments, and discredits Alberto Núñez Feijóo through a photo with Marcial Dorado. Otegi acknowledges the PSOE has issues but insists it must address them, contrasting with other Basque leaders like Aitor Esteban who criticize his leniency toward Sánchez.
Bias read (Left): The article frames Otegi’s continued support for Sánchez amid corruption allegations as politically motivated, using terms like 'operación política' against the Guardia Civil and defending specific figures within the PSOE. The emphasis on Otegi’s alignment with leftist positions and criticism of Feí
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports on the Pope’s speech and its impact on Spanish politics, quoting him directly and presenting both sides’ reactions. It maintains a balanced approach and avoids overt bias.
20minutosIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8010 days ago
The Basque Nationalist Party (PNV) has acknowledged holding meetings with the Spanish government aimed at rescuing the steel company Tubos Reunidos, but they frame these discussions as being in service of protecting Basque interests. The company, which has faced financial difficulties, is a significant employer in the region, and the PNV's involvement highlights the intersection of regional economic concerns and national politics. While the PNV does not explicitly endorse a government rescue plan, their participation suggests an effort to ensure that any intervention prioritizes the needs of the Basque Country. This situation reflects broader tensions between regional autonomy and central government authority in Spain.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the PNV's admission of meeting with the government and frames it within the context of defending Basque interests. It does not exhibit overtly biased language or selective sourcing. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the actions and justifications provided by the PNV without顯
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): This article lists several high-ranking officials implicated in the corruption case, citing specific charges and roles. It maintains consistency with other reports and provides detailed information on the scope of the investigation.
El MundoIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 8020 days ago
The PSOE is being dragged down by the 'lie' of Zapatero's jewels amid what is considered the worst week for Sánchez: 'The membership cries.' The million-dollar appraisal of the seized jewelry from the former president has plunged the PSOE into disappointment and despair, amidst a landscape marked by corruption cases affecting the party.
Bias read (Center): The article discusses the impact of corruption allegations on the PSOE party but does not exhibit clear bias in its framing or sourcing. It presents the situation without overtly favoring any particular political stance.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): This article provides detailed and factual information about the international investigation into Zapatero, maintaining a neutral tone and focusing on procedural aspects.
El PeriódicoIndependentRightFactual 95Objective 7514 days ago
The article reports that Peramato refused to clarify during a Senate session regarding meetings with Leire and allegations suggesting a prosecutor's office is 'serving a criminal plot.' The focus appears to be on political controversy surrounding potential collusion between judicial authorities and alleged criminal activities.
Bias read (Right): The article frames the allegations against the prosecutor's office using strong language ('al servicio de una trama criminal'), which implies a political or institutional bias toward the accused parties. This phrasing suggests a right-leaning perspective by casting doubt on the impartiality of the司法
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 75): This article accurately reflects Feijóo’s shift in strategy regarding coalition with Vox, aligning with the primary source. It provides clear context but has a slightly political tone.
elDiario.esIndependentCenterFactual 92Objective 8521 days ago
Jesús Pérez Rodríguez-Urrutia has resigned as an independent board member of Tubos Reunidos, citing 'incompatibilities' with other responsibilities. He was investigated by the National Market Values Commission (CNMV) and is under investigation by the National Court for alleged corruption related to the 2021 rescue of Tubos Reunidos by the SEPI (State Industrial Participation Company), valued at €112.8 million. The probe examines whether illegal commissions were paid to former SEPI president Vicente Fernández Guerrero and his group, including Leire Díez and Antxon Alonso. According to the case,
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information without overtly biased language or selective sourcing. It reports on resignations, investigations, and legal proceedings without apparent ideological framing.
Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 85): This article accurately reports on Jesús Pérez Rodríguez-Urrutia’s resignation and the investigation into potential bribes to Fernández. It references specific documents and legal proceedings, maintaining alignment with cross-source reporting. Objectivity is strong as it presents facts without emoti
El MundoIndependent🔒CenterFactual 92Objective 8010 days ago
The Spanish National Prosecution Service has filed charges against Leire Díez, a former communications officer for the PSOE (Spanish Socialist Workers' Party), ex-president of the State Public Enterprises Institute (SEPI) Vicente Fernández, and businessman Antxon Alonso, who is linked to former PSOE secretary Santos Cerdán. The investigation centers around alleged corruption involving multiple public companies. In the case of Mercasa, a public market operator, the trio allegedly manipulated a report to justify an unnecessary relocation of their headquarters, inflating maintenance costs by €700,000. They also acted as intermediaries in the new property acquisition, earning €18,119.75 for the false report. Regarding Enusa, a state-owned uranium management company, they facilitated a deal between Enusa and private firm Acciona, suggesting Enusa retain ownership of its assets while allowing Acciona to benefit through usufruct rights. This was disguised as consultancy fees, with payments totaling €17,545. The investigation into these activities is ongoing.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about legal proceedings involving high-profile individuals within the PSOE and their alleged involvement in corrupt practices with public enterprises. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The content remains fact
Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 80): This article explains the role of Leire Díez in pressuring the PSE for Tubos Reunidos' rescue, based on the UCO report. It provides specific details and aligns with other accounts, maintaining objectivity despite the gravity of the claims.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.
Spain
