Sánchez Calls Political Leaders but Excludes Vox in Debate on Ukraine

Pedro Sánchez has announced that he will convene the leaders of the political parties next Thursday to address the situation in Ukraine. The objective of the meeting is to exchange opinions on the conflict and analyze Spain's position. In light of the challenges Europe faces in this context.

However, the call excludes Santiago Abascal, leader of Vox. Sánchez justified his decision by stating that the party's stance is already well known. “Vox will not be in the equation because we are already very clear about their position,” declared the head of the Executive, dismissing any dialogue with the party.

The Government aims to strengthen coordination with the main political parties to define Spain's stance in upcoming international summits. Sánchez insisted that Europe must remain united in this crisis, although he avoided commenting on a possible deployment of troops to Ukrainian territory.

“We are in very early stages to know what Europe's participation should be,” he stated. This without clarifying what role Spain will play in a future peace agreement. The announcement was made at the European summit in Brussels. Where Volodymyr Zelensky also participates, at a key moment in the war and international politics.

The United States has begun exploring diplomatic avenues with Russia, which could affect the European Union's strategy in the conflict with Ukraine. Sánchez reaffirmed Spain's commitment to the invaded country but avoided making concrete decisions about greater involvement in the war.

The decision to exclude Vox has caused a strong political reaction, with criticism from the opposition for what they consider an undemocratic exclusion. From Abascal's party, they have accused Sánchez of discriminating against millions of voters and imposing a “sanitary cordon” to silence their stance.

The Executive, on the other hand, maintains that Vox's absence from the meeting doesn't alter the debate, as their position on the conflict is inflexible and already known. The socialists seek consensus with the rest of the parliamentary forces to strengthen Spain's role in the European strategy against Russia.

Government sources insist that this meeting seeks to strengthen the country's stance in the EU and improve coordination in the face of future political scenarios. Meanwhile, from the People's Party, they demand that Sánchez not use foreign policy as a partisan weapon and ensure pluralism in the debate.

The war in Ukraine remains a key issue in Congress. The president is expected to appear at the end of March to explain his stance. The Government faces both internal and external pressures, as some parliamentary partners have demanded greater clarity on Spain's role.