Spanish PM's Schengen Scandal: Corruption Probe Rocks Government

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is embroiled in his government's worst crisis since taking power, as a widening corruption investigation reveals shocking Schengen-related violations and alleged bribery schemes involving his closest allies.

Schengen Entry Scandal Resurfaces in Corruption Probe

The investigation, dubbed Operation Delorme, has uncovered evidence linking Sánchez's former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos to multiple offenses including influence peddling and facilitating illegal Schengen zone entries. The scandal dates back to 2020 when Ábalos allegedly helped Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez enter Spain despite her EU travel ban.

Key Developments in the Case

• Former PSOE #3 Santos Cerdán resigned after wiretaps allegedly caught him discussing bribes
• Investigators discovered inflated pandemic mask contracts worth millions
• Evidence suggests kickbacks were funneled through shell companies

Schengen Violations Compound Political Crisis

The corruption case takes on international dimensions with revelations about Schengen area violations. The 2020 Delcygate scandal, where Rodríguez illegally entered Spanish territory, has resurfaced as investigators found connections between Venezuelan officials and the Spanish corruption network.

Sánchez has apologized to voters but refuses calls for early elections, even as coalition partners demand accountability. The PM maintains he was unaware of the alleged crimes committed by his inner circle.

Potential Fallout for Schengen Policy

This scandal could impact:

1. Spain's credibility in EU border policy discussions
2. Future Schengen visa issuance procedures
3. Cross-border corruption monitoring mechanisms

As the investigation continues, all eyes remain on whether Sánchez can maintain his fragile coalition government while addressing these serious allegations that span domestic corruption and international Schengen violations.