Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez faces corruption probe involving his wife and a judge

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is under mounting legal pressure as investigations target his inner circle. He denied accusations of "generalized corruption" surrounding his government and the PSOE, stating “We are very calm” and that such allegations “do not exist.”

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado, who is leading the case against Sánchez’s wife Begoña Gómez, ordered her to stand trial on charges of embezzlement, influence‑peddling and misuse of public funds, and barred her from leaving Spain. Peinado justified the travel ban by claiming police could assist a possible escape, a remark that prompted a public reprimand from the National Police and a disciplinary inquiry by the General Council of the Judiciary.

Justice Minister Félix Bolaños called the proceedings “a terrible day for justice.” The probe also encompasses the recent conviction of former transport minister José Luis Ábalos, inquiries into Sánchez’s brother and former allies, and opposition demands for Sánchez’s resignation ahead of the 2027 elections.