Parties Agree to Reduce Deficit, Raise Minimum Wage in Spain
Spain’s two major parties compromise on a spending plan for 2017.
Southern Europe
Italy’s Renzi Brought Referendum Mess on Himself
The social democrat thought a referendum would strengthen him. It could prove his undoing.
Italians Know What a European “Trump” Would Look Like
Silvio Berlusconi was brash, politically incorrect and did lasting damage to Italians’ trust in politics.
Spaniards Don’t Take Trump Seriously, Take Clinton for Granted
Spaniards assume Trump cannot win, but they haven’t given much thought to a Clinton presidency either.
Spanish City in North Africa at the Heart of Diplomatic Row
Russian warships sail past Ceuta this time, but its ambiguous NATO status makes it a popular port of call.
Spain’s Socialists Agree to Give Rival Rajoy Second Term
The party ends ten months of political impasse by allowing their right-wing rival to remain in power.
Countries Most Critical of Russia Sanctions Least Affected
Southern European nations oppose fresh sanctions even though they have been least affected by them.
Spain Unwilling to Keep Gibraltar in EU Single Market
Mariano Rajoy says Spain would block a special Brexit deal for the peninsula.
Italy’s Referendum Is Giving Matteo Renzi Sleepless Nights
There is a risk voters will use the referendum to vent their frustration with Italy’s political class.
Puigdemont Stares Down Catalan Far Left, Calls for Referendum
The Catalan leader puts down a rebellion and presses ahead with plans to secede from Spain.
Let Spain’s Socialist Party Rebels Spell Out Their Alternative
If they blame Pedro Sánchez for not going into government with the center-right, would they?
Socialist Party Bosses Grow Restless in Spain
Regional leaders question the party’s decision not to give Mariano Rajoy a third term.
Rajoy’s Confirmation Hinges on Socialist Abstention
The only way Spain’s conservative prime minister can stay in power is if his Socialist rivals let him.
Center-Right Parties Explore Accord in Spain
Conservative leader Mariano Rajoy promises to consider the demands of a small liberal party.
Portugal, Spain Once Again Escape Fines for Deficits
The two countries keep failing to meet their budget targets.