The Government and the PSOE breathe “relieved” after the UDEF report against Zapatero became known: “We have the confidence that in his statement on June 2 he can explain everything”

The Government and the PSOE breathe with certain “relief” after learning the content of the UDEF report that supports the indictment of former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero in the so-called ‘Plus Ultra case’. According to socialist sources consulted by this media, in Moncloa and in the federal leadership of the party they consider that, despite the seriousness of the accusations, the police document does not yet contain “conclusive evidence” against the former socialist leader.

The same sources indicate that in the PSOE they maintain “confidence” that Zapatero can “explain everything” during his statement as an investigated party before the National Court judge José Luis Calama, scheduled for next June 2. “We believe he will be able to clarify each of the issues that appear in the order and dismantle many of the suspicions,” point out sources from the socialist environment.

In the party, they acknowledge that the judicial order has generated concern due to the magistrate's account of an alleged influence peddling scheme linked to the rescue of the Plus Ultra airline, but they emphasize that the investigation is still in an initial phase and that an indictment does not equate to a conviction. “There are indications and hypotheses from the judge, but no definitive evidence,” insist the consulted sources.

From the PSOE, they also underline that Zapatero already offered public explanations in his appearance in the Senate last March and consider that his judicial statement will follow that same line of defense. “He already denied any intervention in the rescue of Plus Ultra and clearly explained what his relationship was with some of the investigated persons,” socialist sources maintain.

In the socialist leadership, they admit, however, that there is anticipation regarding the former president's judicial appearance, especially due to the political impact the case is having. Even so, they defend that Zapatero continues to be “a key figure” for the party and vindicate both his political career and his institutional role during recent years.

Sources from the PSOE also emphasize that the party will maintain its support for the former president as long as no evidence emerges that proves criminal behavior. “We have confidence in him and that he will be able to defend himself with solvency,” they assure, while reminding that “the judicial procedure has just begun.”

In the socialist environment, they also consider that the content known until now of the UDEF report has not caused the "devastating" scenario that some sectors anticipated. "After reading what there is, there is more tranquility than there was a few days ago", admit party sources.

Despite this, both in the Government and in the PSOE avoid considering the political impact of the case closed and remain pending the next judicial proceedings. Zapatero's statement before the Audiencia Nacional will be seen within the Executive as a key moment to try to curb the political wear and tear derived from the investigation.