Relationships that have deteriorated over time
The professional relationship between Pedro Sánchez and Josep Borrell has experienced a noticeable setback since Borrell left the Spanish government, almost four years ago. His departure as head of European diplomacy has left a void that has grown over time.
Clear differences on internal politics
Borrell’s views on the recent Amnesty Law and the treatment of Bildu have shown his discrepancies with the PSOE line. These differences have been a decisive factor in his exclusion from the party list for the next European elections.
The conflict with Venezuela: a point of friction
One of the most prominent moments in the deterioration of their relationship coincided with the approach of the Spanish government to the regime of Nicolás Maduro. This situation began to escalate when Borrell left the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to join the European Commission, leaving behind a government that, according to him, has been too soft on the Venezuelan regime.
The Spanish government’s reaction to Maduro
The Sánchez government was criticized for its moderate response to the actions of Maduro, who has continued his crackdown on the opposition. Borrell, for his part, has maintained a critical stance, noting that the Venezuelan government has accused him of being an ally of American interests.
The pact with ERC: a new source of controversy
The disagreement between Sánchez and Borrell has intensified with the recent pact of the PSOE with ERC to secure the investiture of Salvador Illa. In a recent interview, Borrell expressed his concern about the implications of this agreement, which he considers harmful for Catalonia and which could limit its development capabilities.
The consequences of fiscal plunder
Borrell, with deep experience in public finance, pointed out that this pact reflects a vision of Catalonia as a victim of fiscal plunder, a concept that has been at the center of the political debate in recent years. His criticism points to the need to review the policies that affect the autonomous community.
Looking to the future
With growing tensions between Sánchez and Borrell, the future of Spanish politics is uncertain. Their differences not only affect their respective careers, but can also have significant repercussions in the management of key issues such as foreign policy and Catalan autonomy.