Spain’s Sánchez laments potential for ‘planetary annihilation’
The Spanish leader urges major reform of the United Nations and warns that the EU's embrace of “war preparedness” is feeding “a dangerous militaristic mindset.”
Madrid — Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expresses profound pessimism about the current state of the world, warning that it could lead to another devastating global conflict. In an op-ed for Foreign Affairs magazine, Sánchez argues that the weakening of multilateralism is increasing the likelihood of crises rapidly escalating into a global catastrophe.
According to recent polls, Sánchez is expected to lose his position following the November 29 snap election in Spain, with right-wing and far-right parties projected to secure a parliamentary majority. In his op-ed, Sánchez defends his government's recent decisions, including the denial of Washington's use of Spanish bases in their war against Iran.
He clarifies that this was not an act of hostility or neutrality, but rather a judgment that involvement would exacerbate tensions. Sánchez asserts that to uphold Spain's commitment to peace, it must be prepared to stand firm even when it incurs political consequences. He argues that had more nations followed suit, the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Iran would have been far more challenging and expensive to manage.
The Socialist Party leader also criticizes the European Union's recent endorsement of a war-ready strategy, stating that even centrist leaders are embracing militaristic rhetoric without intending to engage in warfare, thus fostering a dangerous mindset. Sánchez bases his opposition to war on years of Spanish civil society activism against armed conflict, recalling the "No to War!" protests during Spain's support for the 2003 Iraq invasion led by the conservative government of José María Aznar.
He expresses skepticism towards ad hoc solutions like the Coalition of the Willing, a group of 34 countries pledging increased aid to Ukraine, arguing that such measures undermine the effectiveness of multilateralism. Sánchez, positioning himself as a champion of peace and small and mid-sized powers, advocates for UN reforms, including limiting the veto powers of permanent members, especially in cases of mass atrocities, genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.
He also suggests extending the terms of non-permanent member seats and giving priority to countries from Africa and Latin America. Lastly, Sánchez backs the election of a woman as U.N. secretary-general.
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