Julio Martínez Martínez testified Tuesday that former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero mediated a rescue for the airline Plus Ultra [1].
The testimony links a former head of government to the financial salvation of a private carrier, raising questions about the use of political influence in corporate bailouts.
Martínez appeared before Judge José Luis Calama at the Audiencia Nacional in Madrid on July 21, 2026 [1]. During the proceedings, which lasted more than three hours [1], Martínez said that Zapatero acted as a mediator to secure a rescue package of 53 million euros [3] for Plus Ultra while the airline faced grave financial difficulty [3].
Despite confirming the mediation, Martínez said he does not know which specific individuals Zapatero contacted to materialize the funds [1]. However, Martínez said that he himself spoke with Delcy Rodríguez, the interim president of Venezuela [2].
The Spanish government has responded to the testimony by defending Zapatero. Government officials said they believe in the presumption of innocence regarding the former Prime Minister despite the statements made by Martínez [1].
The investigation focuses on how the 53 million euro [3] package was coordinated and whether the mediation involved irregular influence. The case remains active as the court examines the relationship between the political figures and the airline's financial recovery.
“Zapatero mediated a rescue package of 53 million euros for Plus Ultra”
This testimony creates a direct link between a former head of state and a controversial corporate rescue, shifting the focus of the Plus Ultra investigation toward high-level political mediation. While the government maintains a stance of innocence, the mention of Venezuelan leadership suggests the rescue may have involved complex international diplomatic channels rather than standard financial restructuring.
