Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has pledged to defend Spain’s political independence against foreign influence and the international far right, declaring that the country’s future must be determined by its own citizens in the November 29 general elections.
Addressing a campaign gathering in Tarragona on Saturday, Sánchez defended his government’s foreign policy and social spending priorities while criticising attempts by external political forces to shape Spain’s direction.
“On November 29, we will tell them with our votes that Spain is governed from Spain, not from Washington, not from Tel Aviv, not from Buenos Aires, not from Moscow, but from Spain,” he told supporters.
“We will not allow our country to become the outpost or backyard of the international far right,” he added.
The prime minister reaffirmed his government’s opposition to the war in Iran and what he described as genocide in Gaza, reiterating Spain’s support for Palestinian statehood and peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.
Sánchez also defended his refusal to accept US President Donald Trump’s demand that Spain increase defence spending to 5% of its gross domestic product.
He argued that his government would continue prioritising public services and social welfare, including education, healthcare, social care and pensions, rather than committing additional resources to military expenditure.
The Spanish leader presented the upcoming election as a choice over the country’s political sovereignty, international relationships and domestic priorities.
Vowing to continue opposing far-right political movements, Sánchez described Spain as a “beacon” capable of inspiring other countries through its political and social policies.
His remarks come as the election campaign intensifies ahead of the November 29 vote, with foreign policy, defence spending and the influence of international political movements emerging as prominent issues.