A significant political day unfolded in Brussels, coinciding with the European Union's summit of heads of state and government.

Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the People's Party (PP), held discussions with representatives of the European People's Party (EPP) and subsequently criticized Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez for his perceived lack of clarity regarding defense policy, military spending, and relations with the new U.S. administration.

Feijóo accused Sánchez of failing to provide adequate explanations to the Spanish populace on these critical issues during a moment he deemed 'transcendental' for leadership.

During a press conference following his meeting with future German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and EPP President Manfred Weber, Feijóo stated, "One cannot appeal to European unity while undermining the unity of Spain and cannot invoke international legality when the rule of law is being compromised." He specifically addressed the PSOE's agreement with Junts to delegate immigration control to the Catalan government, arguing that grand statements about security cannot be made while competencies affecting national security are being fragmented.

Feijóo further lamented that if the government's energy is focused on addressing organized corruption and stability issues, there may be insufficient time or judgment to articulate its defense policy in light of the extraordinary situation facing the EU.

He emphasized that any decisions regarding defense should have been debated in the Congress of Deputies beforehand.

This critique arose as Sánchez prepared to meet with European leaders in Brussels to discuss plans for European rearmament and continued support for Ukraine in response to the geopolitical challenges posed by the actions of Donald Trump.

Feijóo posed the rhetorical question, "How can a government without a budget or a majority have a voice in the world and be heard in Europe?

Who does it represent if it cannot secure the approval of its Parliament on this issue?"

Prior to the Brussels summit, Sánchez announced plans to contact political group leaders the following Thursday to outline the government's forthcoming steps regarding support for Ukraine, the potential deployment of peacekeeping troops, and increased military spending as advocated by the EU and NATO.

Feijóo expressed skepticism regarding Sánchez's intentions, criticizing the exclusion of Vox from the consultations, labeling it an "apartheid of the president."

Addressing the composition of Sánchez's government, Feijóo remarked on the difficulty of explaining its positions in Europe, noting the existence of members opposed to Spain's NATO membership, those who have encouraged Russian interference during the separatist movements in Catalonia, and others who negotiate with authoritarian regimes and condition the transfer of migration competencies.

He concluded by stating that "Sánchez depends on everyone, all the time, which validates that he lacks a position in a decisive moment that demands leadership."

On the subject of the EPP summit, Feijóo outlined a clear stance among European conservatives, emphasizing the need for Europe to demonstrate leadership in the current international climate, that the EU and Ukraine must be included in peace negotiations, and that collaboration with the U.S. should continue despite political fluctuations, alongside establishing mechanisms to guarantee peace.

Domestically, he asserted that Spain must be a "reliable ally for both the EU and NATO."