Spain's government will seek a fresh extension of its state of emergency that will last "about a month" until the transition out of lockdown is completed, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Saturday.&nbsp;

"It should be the last state of emergency (period) and will continue until the end of the rollback. For that reason.. instead of being a 15-day (extension) it will be for about a month," he said in a televised address.&nbsp;

If such a measure is approved by lawmakers, it would mean the state of emergency that is currently set to expire on May 24, would last until late June.

Spain's overnight death toll from the coronavirus was 102 on Saturday, the health ministry said, marking the lowest 24-hour rise since mid March.

The lockdown was first declared on March 14 to slow the spread of the virus in Spain, which has suffered one of the world's most deadly outbreaks with 27,000 deaths and more than 230,000 cases.&nbsp;

Spain's government will seek a fresh extension of its state of emergency that will last "about a month" until the transition out of lockdown is completed, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Saturday.

Spain's government will seek a fresh extension of its state of emergency that will last "about a month" until the transition out of lockdown is completed, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Saturday. "It should be the last state of emergency (period) and will continue until the end of the rollback. For that reason.. instead of being a 15-day (extension) it will be for about a month," he said in a televised address. If such a measure is approved by lawmakers, it would mean the state of emergency that is currently set to expire on May 24, would last until late June. Spain's overnight death toll from the coronavirus was 102 on Saturday, the health ministry said, marking the lowest 24-hour rise since mid March. The lockdown was first declared on March 14 to slow the spread of the virus in Spain, which has suffered one of the world's most deadly outbreaks with 27,000 deaths and more than 230,000 cases.

Spain to extend its state of emergency for one month

Spain which has been one of the worst-hit&nbsp;countries by coronavirus in Europe has&nbsp;after a long and intense lockdown finally relaxed some restrictions and allowed its citizens, mainly healthy young adults, to step out and take a walk. All this was allowed in specific time slots and with some rules on&nbsp;social distancing.

However, as the situation is still grim and the country fears a second wave, Spanish Prime Minister&nbsp;Pedro Sanchez is seeking parliamentary votes to extend a state of emergency for two more weeks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-claims-worlds-first-coronavirus-vaccine-human-trials-soon-296954">Also read:&nbsp;Italy claims world's first coronavirus vaccine; human trials soon</a>

Pedro, in his parliamentary speech on Wednesday, expressed concern over lifting the lockdown by calling it a "total, unpardonable mistake".&nbsp;

The country, like several others in Europe&nbsp;has been badly hit economically&nbsp;due to the pandemic and lockdowns.&nbsp;However, the Spanish Prime Minister is not in favour of putting the economy above the health of the citizens.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-surge-to-36-million-death-toll-at-257337-296973">Also read:&nbsp;Global coronavirus cases surge to 3.6 million, death toll at 257,337</a>

He has garnered support from the&nbsp;regional Basque nationalist party PNV and&nbsp;the centre-right Ciudadanos party, who have agreed to back the plan of extending the lockdown. The opposition has not been extended their support for this decision, yet.

The economy shrunk by its biggest amount on record, 5.2%, in the first three months of 2020 due to the impact of the crisis. The government predicts the tourism-dependent economy could shrink as much as 9.2% this year.

The football players of Barcelona football club are also set to return to their practices after proper check-ups, according to reports.

The daily death toll of Spain due to coronavirus has decreased to&nbsp;244, which is much less than what the toll was back in early April.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

Spain which has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in Europe has after a long and intense lockdown finally relaxed some restrictions and allowed its citizens, mainly healthy young adults, to step out and take a walk.

Spain which has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in Europe has after a long and intense lockdown finally relaxed some restrictions and allowed its citizens, mainly healthy young adults, to step out and take a walk. All this was allowed in specific time slots and with some rules on social distancing. However, as the situation is still grim and the country fears a second wave, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is seeking parliamentary votes to extend a state of emergency for two more weeks. Also read: Italy claims world's first coronavirus vaccine; human trials soon Pedro, in his parliamentary speech on Wednesday, expressed concern over lifting the lockdown by calling it a "total, unpardonable mistake". The country, like several others in Europe has been badly hit economically due to the pandemic and lockdowns. However, the Spanish Prime Minister is not in favour of putting the economy above the health of the citizens. Also read: Global coronavirus cases surge to 3.6 million, death toll at 257,337 He has garnered support from the regional Basque nationalist party PNV and the centre-right Ciudadanos party, who have agreed to back the plan of extending the lockdown. The opposition has not been extended their support for this decision, yet. The economy shrunk by its biggest amount on record, 5.2%, in the first three months of 2020 due to the impact of the crisis. The government predicts the tourism-dependent economy could shrink as much as 9.2% this year. The football players of Barcelona football club are also set to return to their practices after proper check-ups, according to reports. The daily death toll of Spain due to coronavirus has decreased to 244, which is much less than what the toll was back in early April. (With inputs from Reuters)

Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez garners Basque party votes for lockdown extension

Spain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said.

The fatalities in the country dropped from 378 on Saturday to take the overall deaths to 23,190, the third-highest death toll after the United States and Italy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-200000-mark-294801">Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark</a>

The health ministry also said that 98,731 people have now recovered from the COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-witnesses-nearly-2500-deaths-in-last-24-hours-toll-over-53000-294797">Coronavirus: US witnesses nearly 2,500 deaths in last 24 hours; toll over 53,000</a>

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on Saturday, announced that lockdown restrictions would be relaxed if coronavirus figures continue to fall. &nbsp;

Unlike other European countries, Spain issued a stringent lockdown on March 14, where children were not allowed to go out and only adults can go outside only to buy food, medicine and take out the dog for a brief walk.

However, from Sunday, children under-14s were permitted to go out once a day for one hour between 9:00 am (0700 GMT) and 9:00 pm, along with one parent, but not more than one kilometre&nbsp;from their home.&nbsp;

Sanchez said on Saturday that everyone in the country would take walks and exercise from next weekend.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Spain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said. The fatalities in the country dropped from 378 on Saturday to take the overall deaths to 23,190, the third-highest death toll after the United States and Italy.

Spain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said. The fatalities in the country dropped from 378 on Saturday to take the overall deaths to 23,190, the third-highest death toll after the United States and Italy. Also read | Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark The health ministry also said that 98,731 people have now recovered from the COVID-19. Also read | Coronavirus: US witnesses nearly 2,500 deaths in last 24 hours; toll over 53,000 Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on Saturday, announced that lockdown restrictions would be relaxed if coronavirus figures continue to fall. Unlike other European countries, Spain issued a stringent lockdown on March 14, where children were not allowed to go out and only adults can go outside only to buy food, medicine and take out the dog for a brief walk. However, from Sunday, children under-14s were permitted to go out once a day for one hour between 9:00 am (0700 GMT) and 9:00 pm, along with one parent, but not more than one kilometre from their home. Sanchez said on Saturday that everyone in the country would take walks and exercise from next weekend.

Spain confirms 288 new coronavirus deaths, lowest in a month

After the death toll in the country crossed 20,000, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday extended the nationwide lockdown by two weeks to May 9.&nbsp;

"We have done the hardest part through responsibility and social discipline... we are putting the most extreme moments behind us," the PM said, warning that the country should not take "hasty decisions" to put "fragile gains" made so far in danger.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-225-million-coronavirus-cases-registered-worldwide-death-toll-tops-154000-293313">Over 2.25 million coronavirus cases registered worldwide; death toll tops 154,000</a>

However, the restrictions gave some relaxation to children who are allowed to go outside from April 27.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-orders-daily-coronavirus-projections-as-russias-tally-nears-37000-293323">Putin orders daily coronavirus projections as Russia's tally nears 37,000</a>

Until now only adults were allowed to go outside only for reasons such as working, shopping for food and medicine, medical checkups or walking the dog.&nbsp;

But, there were rising calls on letting the children go outside.&nbsp;

Spain is behind Italy and the United States in terms of the highest number of deaths due to coronavirus with 20,043 fatalities.&nbsp;

However, health officials claim that Spain has passed the peak of the virus, which on April 2 killed 950 people.&nbsp;

As per the latest figures released on Friday, the country recorded another 565 deaths from the virus and the infections rose nearly to 200,000. About 75,000 people have also cured of the virus in Spain. &nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

After the death toll in the country crossed 20,000, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday extended the nationwide lockdown by two weeks to May 9. "We have done the hardest part through responsibility and social discipline.

After the death toll in the country crossed 20,000, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday extended the nationwide lockdown by two weeks to May 9. "We have done the hardest part through responsibility and social discipline... we are putting the most extreme moments behind us," the PM said, warning that the country should not take "hasty decisions" to put "fragile gains" made so far in danger. Also read | Over 2.25 million coronavirus cases registered worldwide; death toll tops 154,000 However, the restrictions gave some relaxation to children who are allowed to go outside from April 27. Also read | Putin orders daily coronavirus projections as Russia's tally nears 37,000 Until now only adults were allowed to go outside only for reasons such as working, shopping for food and medicine, medical checkups or walking the dog. But, there were rising calls on letting the children go outside. Spain is behind Italy and the United States in terms of the highest number of deaths due to coronavirus with 20,043 fatalities. However, health officials claim that Spain has passed the peak of the virus, which on April 2 killed 950 people. As per the latest figures released on Friday, the country recorded another 565 deaths from the virus and the infections rose nearly to 200,000. About 75,000 people have also cured of the virus in Spain. (With AFP inputs)

Coronavirus: Spain extends lockdown by two weeks as death toll tops 20,000

Approximately&nbsp;300,000 non-essential workers in Madrid went to work on&nbsp;Monday as the country partially lifted&nbsp;the country's&nbsp;lockdown, as per&nbsp;a spokesperson for Madrid's regional government.

Spain's General Workers Union (GTU) has raised concerns over the safety of those returning to work and called them ''irresponsible and reckless''.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-treatment-chloroquine-and-hydroxychloroquine-can-cause-heart-problems-292401" hreflang="en">COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems</a>

The union, which has 940,000 members, according to its website, called on employers to be responsible for providing personal protection equipment for their staff.

Spain has the highest number of coronavirus confirmed cases in Europe, and the second highest in the world after United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reasons-for-hope-the-drugs-tests-and-tactics-that-may-conquer-coronavirus-292363" hreflang="en">Reasons for hope: the drugs, tests and tactics that may conquer coronavirus</a>

The country has now recorded a total of more than 17,400 deaths.&nbsp;

After the being in lockdown for almost two months, the country&nbsp;relaxed&nbsp;restrictions and allowed&nbsp;those who cannot work from home, such as those in the construction and manufacturing industries, to return to work.

However, shops, bars, and restaurants and other businesses considered nonessential remain closed.

Spanish&nbsp;Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has cautioned that&nbsp;the nation's return to normal life will be "progressive," stressing that the resumption of normal activity will happen in phases and will be accompanied by hygiene measures and efforts to monitor new cases and prevent further contagion.

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Approximately 300,000 non-essential workers in Madrid went to work on Monday as the country partially lifted the country's lockdown, as per a spokesperson for Madrid's regional government.

Approximately 300,000 non-essential workers in Madrid went to work on Monday as the country partially lifted the country's lockdown, as per a spokesperson for Madrid's regional government. Spain's General Workers Union (GTU) has raised concerns over the safety of those returning to work and called them ''irresponsible and reckless''. Also read: COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems The union, which has 940,000 members, according to its website, called on employers to be responsible for providing personal protection equipment for their staff. Spain has the highest number of coronavirus confirmed cases in Europe, and the second highest in the world after United States. Also read: Reasons for hope: the drugs, tests and tactics that may conquer coronavirus The country has now recorded a total of more than 17,400 deaths. After the being in lockdown for almost two months, the country relaxed restrictions and allowed those who cannot work from home, such as those in the construction and manufacturing industries, to return to work. However, shops, bars, and restaurants and other businesses considered nonessential remain closed. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has cautioned that the nation's return to normal life will be "progressive," stressing that the resumption of normal activity will happen in phases and will be accompanied by hygiene measures and efforts to monitor new cases and prevent further contagion.

Spain: Hundreds of thousands return to work after lockdown restrictions eased

Spain confirmed more than 1,500 new cases of coronavirus between Friday and Saturday raising its total to 5,753 cases, the second-highest number in Europe after Italy.

The country was expected to declare a state of alert on Saturday to try to mobilise resources to combat the virus, which has so far killed 136 people in Spain.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-governments-across-the-world-shutting-down-offices-for-disinfection-286000">Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection</a>

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was due to speak at a cabinet meeting at 1300 GMT to announce the state of alert and new measures expected to limit the movement of people.

On Friday said the government would adopt a series of extraordinary measures in order "to mobilise all the resources of state to better protect the health of all of its citizens".

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The number of cases in Spain has increased tenfold since Sunday, and bars, restaurants and all sporting and cultural institutions have been closed.

The Madrid region, which is the country's worst-hit with nearly 3,000 cases, has ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses.

Spain confirmed more than 1,500 new cases of coronavirus between Friday and Saturday raising its total to 5,753 cases, the second-highest number in Europe after Italy.

Spain confirmed more than 1,500 new cases of coronavirus between Friday and Saturday raising its total to 5,753 cases, the second-highest number in Europe after Italy. The country was expected to declare a state of alert on Saturday to try to mobilise resources to combat the virus, which has so far killed 136 people in Spain. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was due to speak at a cabinet meeting at 1300 GMT to announce the state of alert and new measures expected to limit the movement of people. On Friday said the government would adopt a series of extraordinary measures in order "to mobilise all the resources of state to better protect the health of all of its citizens". Watch: × The number of cases in Spain has increased tenfold since Sunday, and bars, restaurants and all sporting and cultural institutions have been closed. The Madrid region, which is the country's worst-hit with nearly 3,000 cases, has ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses.

Spain counts 1,500 new coronavirus cases in one day

Spain's far-right Vox party more than doubled its number of lawmakers in the country's fourth national election in four years, which delivered a deeply fragmented parliament, setting the stage for very difficult government negotiations.

Spain's far-right Vox party more than doubled its number of lawmakers in the country's fourth national election in four years, which delivered a deeply fragmented parliament, setting the stage for very difficult government negotiations. The Socialists of acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who had gambled that a repeat parliamentary election would strengthen his hand, finished first but with fewer seats than in the previous ballot in April and further away from a majority, the near-final official results showed. "One way or another we'll form a progressive government and unblock the political stalemate ... We call upon all the political parties, except for those that work against coexistence and foster hatred," Sanchez said. The figures pointed to a legislative stalemate with neither the left nor right having a majority. The outcome will require party leaders to be creative, negotiate seriously this time and, for some, swallow their pride, after higher abstention rates on Sunday showed that voters are tired of being called repeatedly to the ballot box. "Now they'll have to negotiate, people don't want a third election," said Isabel Romero, 65-year-old pensioner who voted for the Socialists, complaining that abstention was already high. The most likely outcome appeared to be a minority Socialist government. The bigger question would be who its allies could be and how long such a government could last. The conservative People's Party (PP) was second and Vox third, mostly at the expense of the centre-right Ciudadanos, which slumped from 57 seats to just 10. Various potential solutions to unblock the stalemate, however, involve Ciudadanos, alongside regionalist parties. Vox won 52 seats, up from the 24 seats with which it debuted in parliament in April. Its increase in the number of votes across Spain was smaller, however, rising by a third. Nationalist surge Spain had long appeared immune to a nationalist surge that has swept through other parts of Europe in recent elections, with many still remembering the military dictatorship of General Francisco Franco. But anger with political gridlock and with secessionist unrest in Catalonia appeared to have significantly boosted Vox's popularity. Vox leader Santiago Abascal said he would now work to build what he called "a patriotic alternative" for Spain. Celebrating at the party's headquarters, where the crowd sang traditional Spanish songs and waved national flags, Cristina Martinez, a 25-year old lawyer, said: "Today Vox cannot govern. But in the future... It's growing!" France's far-right party leader Marine Le Pen congratulated Vox on Twitter, praising what she called its "staggering progress." Casting her ballot for the Socialists in Madrid earlier in the day, 64-year old retired history teacher Esperanza de Antonio said Vox was a danger to democracy. "I'm saying this because I've taught about fascism for 30 years," she told Reuters. Franco ruled Spain as an autocrat from 1939 until his death in 1975. Alliances? Following decades after Franco's death during which power oscillated between the Socialists and the PP, Spain has struggled to put stable governments together since new parties, latterly including Vox, emerged from the financial crisis. The new parliament, which will hold its inaugural session in early December, will include 16 parties, including several more regional ones and the anti-capitalist, pro-Catalan independence CUP party. The Socialists won 120 seats, just down from the 123 they secured in the 350-seat house in April. "We're ready to negotiate starting tomorrow" with the Socialists, said Pablo Iglesias, leader of the far-left Unidas Podemos which tried and failed to reach a coalition deal with Sanchez after the last election, urging the left to unite this time to stop the rise of populism. There seemed to be three main possibilities to reach the 176-seat majority in parliament, all of them fraught with difficulties, including the one involving Ciudadanos. One would see PP abstain and allow Sanchez to lead a minority government. PP leader Pablo Casado, who had in the past repeatedly ruled out supporting Sanchez in any way, made clear breaking the stalemate would be even more difficult than before, but said he would wait for the Socialists' next move. "Sanchez has lost, now it's much more difficult for him to form a government," he said. "Spain cannot wait any longer, but it cannot be hostage to his partisan interests." Another option would gather the majority that toppled the conservatives in a corruption scandal last year and first allowed Sanchez to become prime minister. But that would require Catalan separatist lawmakers to back Sanchez, which would be hard to imagine at a time of such tensions with Catalonia. The third option would be that Ciudadanos would support the Socialists, alongside several regionalist parties. In another setback on Sunday, Sanchez saw his Socialist party lose its majority in the Senate.

Spain's far right doubles seats in hung parliament, difficult talks ahead

Spain voted Sunday in its fourth general election in as many years amid heightened tensions over Catalonia's separatist push, an issue that has fuelled a surge in support for upstart far-right party Vox.

The repeat polls were called after Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez failed to secure support from other parties following an inconclusive election in April which saw his Socialist party win the most votes, but no working majority in parliament.

Opinion polls, however, suggest this new election will fail to break the deadlock. Neither the left nor the right look likely to win a ruling majority in Spain's 350-seat parliament.

The Socialists look set to finish top again, but with slightly fewer seats than the 123 they picked up in April. The main opposition conservative Popular Party (PP) may also strengthen their parliamentary presence.

But the most striking development could be the rise of the far-right Vox party, which might even jump to third-largest in parliament, according to recent polling.

"More ungovernability or stability: Spaniards choose," wrote conservative newspaper ABC on its front page Sunday.

Voting stations opened at 9:00 am (0800 GMT) and will close at 8:00 pm, with results expected a few hours later.

The election comes as Spain finds itself increasingly polarised by the Catalan crisis, which has deepened in recent weeks.

Less than a month ago, Spain's Supreme Court sentenced nine Catalan separatist leaders to lengthy jail terms over their role in a failed 2017 independence bid, sparking days of angry street protests in Barcelona and other Catalan cities that sometimes turned violent.

More than 600 people were injured in the protests, which saw demonstrators torching barricades and throwing stones and Molotov cocktails at police.

'Drastic solutions are needed'

Sanchez said Madrid had sent a "significant" number of security forces to the northeastern region to ensure the unrest did not disrupt voting in Catalonia.

During a TV election debate, PP leader Pablo Casado called for a "real government that will put an order in Catalonia".

But the toughest line against the Catalan separatists has come from Vox leader Santiago Abascal.

"Drastic solutions are needed," he said during his final campaign rally on Friday night in Madrid.

He then repeated his pledge to end the Catalan crisis by suspending Catalonia's regional autonomy, banning separatist parties and arresting its regional president, Quim Torra, who has vowed to continue the secession drive.

The crowd responded by chanting "Torra to the dungeon".

At the rally, Ana Escobedo said she has voted for the PP in the past but was drawn to Vox because of its hard-line on Catalonia as well as illegal immigration.

"I think we heed to take a heavy hand," she said.

Vox won 24 seats in parliament in the last election in April, in the first significant showing by a far-right faction since Spain's return to democracy following the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

This time Vox could double that number, polls suggest.

More paralysis?

In recent days, Sanchez has repeatedly raised the alarm about Vox's "aggressive ultra-rightwing" policies, warning the party would drag the country back to the dark days of Franco's dictatorship.&nbsp;

"Spain needs a progressive government that puts the brakes on the far-right and a government that puts the brakes on the extremists also here in Catalonia, who are the separatists," he said during his final campaign rally in Barcelona on Friday.

Spain has been caught in political paralysis since the election of December 2015 when far-left Podemos and business-friendly Ciudadanos entered parliament.

That put an end to decades of dominance of the two main parties, the PP and the Socialists, in the eurozone's fourth-largest economy.

But there is a risk Sunday's vote will only prolong the agony.

With no single party able to secure the required 176 seats for a majority, the Socialists are likely to opt for a minority government, ING analyst Steven Trypsteen said.

"Voting intentions appear to have changed since the April election. But these changes will not make it easier to form a government, so the political situation is likely to remain difficult after this weekend's vote," he added. 
&nbsp;

Spain voted Sunday in its fourth general election in as many years amid heightened tensions over Catalonia's separatist push, an issue that has fuelled a surge in support for upstart far-right party Vox.

Spain voted Sunday in its fourth general election in as many years amid heightened tensions over Catalonia's separatist push, an issue that has fuelled a surge in support for upstart far-right party Vox. The repeat polls were called after Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez failed to secure support from other parties following an inconclusive election in April which saw his Socialist party win the most votes, but no working majority in parliament. Opinion polls, however, suggest this new election will fail to break the deadlock. Neither the left nor the right look likely to win a ruling majority in Spain's 350-seat parliament. The Socialists look set to finish top again, but with slightly fewer seats than the 123 they picked up in April. The main opposition conservative Popular Party (PP) may also strengthen their parliamentary presence. But the most striking development could be the rise of the far-right Vox party, which might even jump to third-largest in parliament, according to recent polling. "More ungovernability or stability: Spaniards choose," wrote conservative newspaper ABC on its front page Sunday. Voting stations opened at 9:00 am (0800 GMT) and will close at 8:00 pm, with results expected a few hours later. The election comes as Spain finds itself increasingly polarised by the Catalan crisis, which has deepened in recent weeks. Less than a month ago, Spain's Supreme Court sentenced nine Catalan separatist leaders to lengthy jail terms over their role in a failed 2017 independence bid, sparking days of angry street protests in Barcelona and other Catalan cities that sometimes turned violent. More than 600 people were injured in the protests, which saw demonstrators torching barricades and throwing stones and Molotov cocktails at police. 'Drastic solutions are needed' Sanchez said Madrid had sent a "significant" number of security forces to the northeastern region to ensure the unrest did not disrupt voting in Catalonia. During a TV election debate, PP leader Pablo Casado called for a "real government that will put an order in Catalonia". But the toughest line against the Catalan separatists has come from Vox leader Santiago Abascal. "Drastic solutions are needed," he said during his final campaign rally on Friday night in Madrid. He then repeated his pledge to end the Catalan crisis by suspending Catalonia's regional autonomy, banning separatist parties and arresting its regional president, Quim Torra, who has vowed to continue the secession drive. The crowd responded by chanting "Torra to the dungeon". At the rally, Ana Escobedo said she has voted for the PP in the past but was drawn to Vox because of its hard-line on Catalonia as well as illegal immigration. "I think we heed to take a heavy hand," she said. Vox won 24 seats in parliament in the last election in April, in the first significant showing by a far-right faction since Spain's return to democracy following the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975. This time Vox could double that number, polls suggest. More paralysis? In recent days, Sanchez has repeatedly raised the alarm about Vox's "aggressive ultra-rightwing" policies, warning the party would drag the country back to the dark days of Franco's dictatorship. "Spain needs a progressive government that puts the brakes on the far-right and a government that puts the brakes on the extremists also here in Catalonia, who are the separatists," he said during his final campaign rally in Barcelona on Friday. Spain has been caught in political paralysis since the election of December 2015 when far-left Podemos and business-friendly Ciudadanos entered parliament. That put an end to decades of dominance of the two main parties, the PP and the Socialists, in the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. But there is a risk Sunday's vote will only prolong the agony. With no single party able to secure the required 176 seats for a majority, the Socialists are likely to opt for a minority government, ING analyst Steven Trypsteen said. "Voting intentions appear to have changed since the April election. But these changes will not make it easier to form a government, so the political situation is likely to remain difficult after this weekend's vote," he added.

Spain votes in repeat general election amid Catalonia tensions

Spain's far-right Vox party could nearly double its number of parliamentary seats in next weekend's general election, according to an opinion poll published on Sunday.

While the Socialist Party of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez looks set to see its number of seats slip to 121 from 123 last time round in the 350-seat Congress of Deputies, Vox will see tally jump to 46 from 24, according to the poll published in the daily El Pais.

Spain is scheduled to hold its fourth general election in as many years on November 10. The last time the country went to the polls was in April.

Even with support of the other leftist parties, Sanchez's Socialists will fall short of the 176 seats needed for an overall majority, the poll suggested.&nbsp;

The far-left Podemos party will likely secure 31 seats after picking up 42 at the last election in April, according to the poll.

By contrast, the conservative Popular Party (PP) looks set to see its number of seats rise to 91 from 66 in April.&nbsp;

And the business-friendly liberal party Ciudadanos will be the biggest loser, with just 14 seats, compared with 57 six months ago.&nbsp;

Spain's previously bi-party political system collapsed with the entry into parliament of Podemos and Ciudadanos in 2015.&nbsp;

A grand coalition between the Socialists and the Conservatives could surpass the 176 seats needed for an overall majority, but Sanchez has categorically ruled out any such scenario.&nbsp;

For the survey in El Pais, 2,002 voters were questioned between October 23 and 29.

Spain's far-right Vox party could nearly double its number of parliamentary seats in next weekend's general election, according to an opinion poll published on Sunday.

Spain's far-right Vox party could nearly double its number of parliamentary seats in next weekend's general election, according to an opinion poll published on Sunday. While the Socialist Party of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez looks set to see its number of seats slip to 121 from 123 last time round in the 350-seat Congress of Deputies, Vox will see tally jump to 46 from 24, according to the poll published in the daily El Pais. Spain is scheduled to hold its fourth general election in as many years on November 10. The last time the country went to the polls was in April. Even with support of the other leftist parties, Sanchez's Socialists will fall short of the 176 seats needed for an overall majority, the poll suggested. The far-left Podemos party will likely secure 31 seats after picking up 42 at the last election in April, according to the poll. By contrast, the conservative Popular Party (PP) looks set to see its number of seats rise to 91 from 66 in April. And the business-friendly liberal party Ciudadanos will be the biggest loser, with just 14 seats, compared with 57 six months ago. Spain's previously bi-party political system collapsed with the entry into parliament of Podemos and Ciudadanos in 2015. A grand coalition between the Socialists and the Conservatives could surpass the 176 seats needed for an overall majority, but Sanchez has categorically ruled out any such scenario. For the survey in El Pais, 2,002 voters were questioned between October 23 and 29.

Spain's far-right set to double seats in upcoming election: poll

Spain's main political parties kicked off a highly condensed electoral campaign on Thursday night, just 10 days before Spaniards head to the polls for a repeat&nbsp;election&nbsp;that is likely to show an&nbsp;increasingly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catalan-crisis-looms-large-over-spains-november-election-257364">fragmented&nbsp;society</a>.

With voting booths set to open on November&nbsp;10, the&nbsp;election&nbsp;will be&nbsp;Spain's fourth in four years and opinion polls suggest that no party and neither the left nor right-wing bloc will gain enough seats to take control of the 350-member parliament.

The leaders of the Socialist and Conservative parties blamed each other for the country's political paralysis in their first campaign rallies.

Speaking in Seville, acting socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez repeatedly encouraged people to get out and vote and sought to convince undecided voters.

According to a recent aggregate of polls published by&nbsp;Spain's state-run Centre for Sociological Studies, around 32 per cent&nbsp;of voters still have not decided for whom to vote.

"The Socialist Party is the only political party that can guarantee a government in our country," Sanchez said.

Spain&nbsp;has been stuck in a political limbo since the Socialists emerged as the most popular party in an&nbsp;election&nbsp;in April but failed to win enough seats to form a government.

Pablo Casado, leader of the conservative People's Party, cast the&nbsp;election&nbsp;as a referendum on Sanchez, who he said was "holding the country hostage for his own political gain."

Presenting himself as the candidate for a united&nbsp;Spain, Casado said he would take a hard line against separatism.

"Torra can't stay one more minute in the Generaliat while there is still violence on the streets of Barcelona," he said, referring to the pro-independence head of the Catalan government Quim Torra.

The run-up&nbsp;to the campaign has been overshadowed by weeks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/activists-gear-up-for-weekend-of-mass-protest-in-barcelona-258305">violent protests in Catalonia</a>, which erupted after nine separatist leaders were slapped with prison sentences for their role in a failed independence bid.

Recent polling has shown waning support for the Socialists since the protests began, while parties on the right that have adopted a stronger stance against separatism are gaining.

Far-right party Vox is on track to nearly double its number of seats in parliament, a poll published on Thursday showed, which would make it the third most-voted party.

In a rally in Barcelona, Vox's leader, Santiago Abascal, described the situation in Catalonia as a national emergency. He said that if he is elected prime minister, his first move would be to order Torra's arrest.

Spain's main political parties kicked off a highly condensed electoral campaign on Thursday night, just 10 days before Spaniards head to the polls for a repeat election that is likely to show an increasingly fragmented society.

Spain's main political parties kicked off a highly condensed electoral campaign on Thursday night, just 10 days before Spaniards head to the polls for a repeat election that is likely to show an increasingly fragmented society. With voting booths set to open on November 10, the election will be Spain's fourth in four years and opinion polls suggest that no party and neither the left nor right-wing bloc will gain enough seats to take control of the 350-member parliament. The leaders of the Socialist and Conservative parties blamed each other for the country's political paralysis in their first campaign rallies. Speaking in Seville, acting socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez repeatedly encouraged people to get out and vote and sought to convince undecided voters. According to a recent aggregate of polls published by Spain's state-run Centre for Sociological Studies, around 32 per cent of voters still have not decided for whom to vote. "The Socialist Party is the only political party that can guarantee a government in our country," Sanchez said. Spain has been stuck in a political limbo since the Socialists emerged as the most popular party in an election in April but failed to win enough seats to form a government. Pablo Casado, leader of the conservative People's Party, cast the election as a referendum on Sanchez, who he said was "holding the country hostage for his own political gain." Presenting himself as the candidate for a united Spain, Casado said he would take a hard line against separatism. "Torra can't stay one more minute in the Generaliat while there is still violence on the streets of Barcelona," he said, referring to the pro-independence head of the Catalan government Quim Torra. The run-up to the campaign has been overshadowed by weeks of violent protests in Catalonia, which erupted after nine separatist leaders were slapped with prison sentences for their role in a failed independence bid. Recent polling has shown waning support for the Socialists since the protests began, while parties on the right that have adopted a stronger stance against separatism are gaining. Far-right party Vox is on track to nearly double its number of seats in parliament, a poll published on Thursday showed, which would make it the third most-voted party. In a rally in Barcelona, Vox's leader, Santiago Abascal, described the situation in Catalonia as a national emergency. He said that if he is elected prime minister, his first move would be to order Torra's arrest.

Spain gears up for express election amid increasingly divided society

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and the opposition leader visited Barcelona on Monday to meet police struggling with Catalan separatist violence in a crisis that could be a game-changer in next month's general election.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and the opposition leader visited Barcelona on Monday to meet police struggling with Catalan separatist violence in a crisis that could be a game-changer in next month's general election. The visit came as Sanchez faces mounting criticism over his handling of the crisis, which erupted a week ago when the Supreme Court sentenced nine separatist leaders to long jail terms over an abortive 2017 independence bid. Over the past week, nearly 600 have been people hurt, two of whom remain critical, as protesters have torched cars, burnt barricades and lobbed rocks at police who have hit back with tear gas and rubber bullets. The nightly violence has dominated the news in Spain and made headlines around the world, but so far, Madrid has shown little appetite for direct intervention, despite repeated calls for regional president Quim Torra to condemn the unrest. And it has done little to help the ruling Socialists, with a string of surveys on Monday showing rising support for the conservative opposition Popular Party. If an election was to be held today, the Socialists would win 117 seats in the 350-member parliament, down from 123 in the April elections, while the PP, would take 103 up from 66 in April, according to a poll in eldiario.es Oust Torra, rescind autonomy In an address at the police headquarters, Sanchez acknowledged the crisis was not yet over but warned the government would not back down. "It is evident that the radicals who engage in violence have decided that Barcelona will be their theatre of operation to broadcast their grievance to those at home and abroad," he said before meeting wounded officers in hospital. "While it's true that the crisis isn't over, we have to keep trying. They want to make it worse but we are much more persistent, much more determined." PP head Pablo Casado used his visit to Barcelona to demand the government "intensify its operations" against the troublemakers, urging it to ensure the "immediate return of security... to the streets of Catalonia". Sanchez has repeatedly come under fire from his opponents for taking a soft line on the separatists, with the resolutely anti-separatist Ciudadanos on Sunday demanding Madrid oust Torra and suspend Catalonia's autonomy, as it did in 2017. So far, Sanchez has refused to speak to Torra despite his call for "unconditional" talks, an apparent attempt to secure agreement for a legal referendum on independence -- a non-starter for Madrid, which claims the Constitution does not allow it. 'Stop telling lies' Speaking to Britain's Guardian newspaper, Sanchez's deputy Carmen Calvo said Torra should "stop telling impossible lies." "The independence movement’s biggest problem politically is that they’ve lied to the Catalan people," she said. "They told them the split was possible, that the right to self-determination exists in a democracy like Spain -- which is a total lie. There’s no right to unilateral separation in this democracy nor any other." Sanchez government denies the current unrest is political in nature, with Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska on Monday describing it as "basically a crisis of public order." Although Barcelona returned to relative calm at the weekend, some 500 activists Monday rallied in the city centre demanding Sanchez "sit and talk" while the radical CDR called on protesters to gather in the evening outside the interior ministry armed with paint-filled balloons.

Catalan crisis looms large over Spain's November election

Spain's Pedro Sanchez has just nine days left to resolve a political crisis that could drag the country to its fourth elections in as many years. Everything hinges on him securing support from the far-left Podemos.

He has until September 23 to be confirmed as premier or Spain's deeply-fragmented parliament will be dissolved once again and a new general election held on November 10.

Sanchez's Socialists won the last elections in April but fell far short of a majority, leaving him dependent on the backing of Podemos as well as several smaller regional parties.

Without that, he cannot win the backing of parliament and formally begin a new term at Moncloa, the official residence of Spain's prime minister.

Back in July, Sanchez made two attempts to secure confirmation by the assembly but failed following a dispute with Podemos and its leader Pablo Iglesias that has yet to be resolved.

The Socialists had initially agreed to form a coalition, albeit reluctantly, with the radical leftwing party, offering it several government portfolios, but Podemos refused, saying the posts did not carry enough political clout.

Now Sanchez has taken the offer of a coalition off the table, offering Iglesias only talks on a joint policy programme in the hope of establishing a minority government with ad hoc parliamentary support from the party.

And six weeks on, the situation remains deadlocked.

'King hopes to break the deadlock'

Iglesias has insisted on his party entering government but faced with Sanchez's intransigence, he on Friday suggested forming a "temporary coalition government" that would be able to approve the state budget.

If Sanchez was unhappy with the result, Podemos could then withdraw, while retaining his majority in the chamber, he said.

But government spokeswoman Isabel Celaa dismissed the idea as "absurd" saying the country needs a "solid government" and not one "subject to any test period".

"It is highly unlikely they will reach an agreement," said Ernesto Pascual, professor of political science at the Open University of Catalonia.

In a bid to break the deadlock, King Felipe VI will on Monday begin two days of meetings with party leaders, meeting Iglesias on Tuesday afternoon and Sanchez later that evening.

As head of state, only he can give a formal mandate to Sanchez to once again present his candidacy as head of government to parliament, should an agreement be found.

'Entrenched positions'&nbsp;

"While there remains ample scope for an agreement, new elections are now likely, given both parties' entrenched positions," wrote Eurasia Group senior analyst Federico Santi in a note.

"Crucially, the leadership of neither party considers an electoral repetition as particularly risky or costly as of now."

Should fresh elections be held, surveys suggest the Socialists would win more seats but still fall short of a majority.

And Podemos would have less to lose from a new election than opting to back a Socialist government.

Were they to back such a government without taking an active part in it, the leadership fears the party "would be sidelined over time, losing more ground to the Socialists in the long-term struggle between the two parties for the leadership of the Spanish left," Santi wrote.

And if a new election were held, the outcome would most likely be similar to the current situation, with Sanchez still needing the support of Podemos and smaller regional parties, he added.

Spain has been gripped by political instability since the December 2015 elections ended the traditional two-party system with the emergence of two Podemos and the business-friendly Ciudadanos, leaving the parliament deeply-fragmented.

And the rise of far-right upstart Vox, which entered parliament following April's election, has further complicated the political picture. 
&nbsp;

Spain's Pedro Sanchez has just nine days left to resolve a political crisis that could drag the country to its fourth elections in as many years. Everything hinges on him securing support from the far-left Podemos.

Spain's Pedro Sanchez has just nine days left to resolve a political crisis that could drag the country to its fourth elections in as many years. Everything hinges on him securing support from the far-left Podemos. He has until September 23 to be confirmed as premier or Spain's deeply-fragmented parliament will be dissolved once again and a new general election held on November 10. Sanchez's Socialists won the last elections in April but fell far short of a majority, leaving him dependent on the backing of Podemos as well as several smaller regional parties. Without that, he cannot win the backing of parliament and formally begin a new term at Moncloa, the official residence of Spain's prime minister. Back in July, Sanchez made two attempts to secure confirmation by the assembly but failed following a dispute with Podemos and its leader Pablo Iglesias that has yet to be resolved. The Socialists had initially agreed to form a coalition, albeit reluctantly, with the radical leftwing party, offering it several government portfolios, but Podemos refused, saying the posts did not carry enough political clout. Now Sanchez has taken the offer of a coalition off the table, offering Iglesias only talks on a joint policy programme in the hope of establishing a minority government with ad hoc parliamentary support from the party. And six weeks on, the situation remains deadlocked. 'King hopes to break the deadlock' Iglesias has insisted on his party entering government but faced with Sanchez's intransigence, he on Friday suggested forming a "temporary coalition government" that would be able to approve the state budget. If Sanchez was unhappy with the result, Podemos could then withdraw, while retaining his majority in the chamber, he said. But government spokeswoman Isabel Celaa dismissed the idea as "absurd" saying the country needs a "solid government" and not one "subject to any test period". "It is highly unlikely they will reach an agreement," said Ernesto Pascual, professor of political science at the Open University of Catalonia. In a bid to break the deadlock, King Felipe VI will on Monday begin two days of meetings with party leaders, meeting Iglesias on Tuesday afternoon and Sanchez later that evening. As head of state, only he can give a formal mandate to Sanchez to once again present his candidacy as head of government to parliament, should an agreement be found. 'Entrenched positions' "While there remains ample scope for an agreement, new elections are now likely, given both parties' entrenched positions," wrote Eurasia Group senior analyst Federico Santi in a note. "Crucially, the leadership of neither party considers an electoral repetition as particularly risky or costly as of now." Should fresh elections be held, surveys suggest the Socialists would win more seats but still fall short of a majority. And Podemos would have less to lose from a new election than opting to back a Socialist government. Were they to back such a government without taking an active part in it, the leadership fears the party "would be sidelined over time, losing more ground to the Socialists in the long-term struggle between the two parties for the leadership of the Spanish left," Santi wrote. And if a new election were held, the outcome would most likely be similar to the current situation, with Sanchez still needing the support of Podemos and smaller regional parties, he added. Spain has been gripped by political instability since the December 2015 elections ended the traditional two-party system with the emergence of two Podemos and the business-friendly Ciudadanos, leaving the parliament deeply-fragmented. And the rise of far-right upstart Vox, which entered parliament following April's election, has further complicated the political picture.

Spain in last-chance bid to avoid fresh elections

Seven people including two children were killed in a mid-air collision between a helicopter and a light aircraft over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-sends-warship-to-pick-up-migrants-off-italys-coast-244491">Spain</a>'s Mallorca island on Sunday, authorities said.

The two aircraft crashed over the central town of Inca at 1:35 pm (1135 GMT), the regional Balearic Islands government said on its Twitter account.

Everyone aboard the two aircraft two on the plane and five on the helicopter perished in the crash, a police spokesman said.

A couple and their two children were aboard the helicopter along with the pilot, the spokesman told AFP.

The helicopter was registered in Germany, "which doesn't necessarily mean the occupants were of this nationality," he said, stressing that an investigation into the victims' nationalities was still underway.

Police said the two aircraft crashed into a field.

Mallorca and the other Balearic Islands are popular with both Spanish and foreign tourists, especially in the summer season.

Spanish <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-pedro-sanchez-to-seek-second-term-as-prime-minister-in-july-23-parliament-vote-232361">Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez</a> expressed condolences to the victims' families and said in a tweet that he was "following the news from... Mallorca with concern."

Seven people including two children were killed in a mid-air collision between a helicopter and a light aircraft over Spain's Mallorca island on Sunday, authorities said.

Seven people including two children were killed in a mid-air collision between a helicopter and a light aircraft over Spain's Mallorca island on Sunday, authorities said. The two aircraft crashed over the central town of Inca at 1:35 pm (1135 GMT), the regional Balearic Islands government said on its Twitter account. Everyone aboard the two aircraft two on the plane and five on the helicopter perished in the crash, a police spokesman said. A couple and their two children were aboard the helicopter along with the pilot, the spokesman told AFP. The helicopter was registered in Germany, "which doesn't necessarily mean the occupants were of this nationality," he said, stressing that an investigation into the victims' nationalities was still underway. Police said the two aircraft crashed into a field. Mallorca and the other Balearic Islands are popular with both Spanish and foreign tourists, especially in the summer season. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed condolences to the victims' families and said in a tweet that he was "following the news from... Mallorca with concern."

Spain: Seven dead in mid-air collision in Mallorca

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pedro-says-no-independence-for-catalonia-208738">Spain's new parliament</a> will vote on whether to grant socialist leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-pm-pedro-sanchez-win-snap-polls-marked-by-far-right-gains-214244">Pedro Sanchez</a> a second term as prime minister on July 23, the speaker of the chamber announced Tuesday.

Parliamentary speaker Meritxell Batet told reporters the debate over Sanchez's candidacy would begin on July 22 and the vote would take place the following day.

If Sanchez fails to get an absolute majority &nbsp;176 votes or more he will only require a simple majority more "yes" than "no" votes in a second vote two days later, she added.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-turnout-for-spains-early-election-marked-by-far-right-emergence-214232">Spain</a> needs a Government as soon as possible to continue advancing towards equality," Sanchez tweeted in response to the announcement.

With no parliamentary majority, outgoing premier Sanchez may struggle to find the support he needs in the first vote.

Although his Socialist Party won the most seats in the April 28 election, that was just 123 seats in the 350-seat assembly.

To be sworn in again as prime minister Sanchez will need the support of far-left Podemos which has 42 seats and several other smaller, regional parties.

But Podemos wants to be part of a ruling coalition, a condition Sanchez has refused.

The simple majority required in the second vote means Sanchez could be voted prime minister if the main opposition conservative Popular Party (PP) and centre-right Ciudadanos simply abstained from voting.

But the two parties have so far refused to abstain from voting to make it easier for Sanchez to be sworn in.

Sanchez wants to avoid relying on the abstention of the Catalan separatist parties, as the right routinely accuses him of being held hostage by the separatists.

Sanchez came to power in June 2018 with the help of the separatists by ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote.

But it was the Catalan separatists who triggered the snap polls in April by refusing to back his 2019 budget.

If Sanchez is not sworn in within two months of the first investiture vote, fresh elections must be called in November and Spain has already held three national elections in the past three and a half years.

Spain has never had a coalition government since it returned to democracy following the death of longtime dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

Spain's new parliament will vote on whether to grant socialist leader Pedro Sanchez a second term as prime minister on July 23, the speaker of the chamber announced Tuesday.

Spain's new parliament will vote on whether to grant socialist leader Pedro Sanchez a second term as prime minister on July 23, the speaker of the chamber announced Tuesday. Parliamentary speaker Meritxell Batet told reporters the debate over Sanchez's candidacy would begin on July 22 and the vote would take place the following day. If Sanchez fails to get an absolute majority 176 votes or more he will only require a simple majority more "yes" than "no" votes in a second vote two days later, she added. "Spain needs a Government as soon as possible to continue advancing towards equality," Sanchez tweeted in response to the announcement. With no parliamentary majority, outgoing premier Sanchez may struggle to find the support he needs in the first vote. Although his Socialist Party won the most seats in the April 28 election, that was just 123 seats in the 350-seat assembly. To be sworn in again as prime minister Sanchez will need the support of far-left Podemos which has 42 seats and several other smaller, regional parties. But Podemos wants to be part of a ruling coalition, a condition Sanchez has refused. The simple majority required in the second vote means Sanchez could be voted prime minister if the main opposition conservative Popular Party (PP) and centre-right Ciudadanos simply abstained from voting. But the two parties have so far refused to abstain from voting to make it easier for Sanchez to be sworn in. Sanchez wants to avoid relying on the abstention of the Catalan separatist parties, as the right routinely accuses him of being held hostage by the separatists. Sanchez came to power in June 2018 with the help of the separatists by ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote. But it was the Catalan separatists who triggered the snap polls in April by refusing to back his 2019 budget. If Sanchez is not sworn in within two months of the first investiture vote, fresh elections must be called in November and Spain has already held three national elections in the past three and a half years. Spain has never had a coalition government since it returned to democracy following the death of longtime dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

Spain's Pedro Sanchez to seek second term as Prime Minister in July 23 parliament vote

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merkels-coalition-in-crisis-talks-after-european-union-vote-debacle-221923">German Chancellor Angela Merkel</a> and French President Emmanuel Macron will lock horns in Brussels on Tuesday as&nbsp;European Union&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;meet to begin bargaining over who will take the bloc's top jobs for the next five years.

An&nbsp;EU-wide election last week returned a&nbsp;European Parliament with a splintered centre and gains by pro-EU&nbsp;liberals and greens as well as&nbsp;eurosceptic nationalists and the far-right.

The centrist&nbsp;European People's Party (EPP) and Socialists &amp; Democrats (S&amp;D) can only count on 326 seats in the new, 751-strong chamber. That is short of the 376-seat majority needed to approve a new head for the bloc's executive&nbsp;European Commission.

Other big roles up for grabs later this year include the head of the&nbsp;European Parliament and the&nbsp;European Central Bank, the bloc's foreign policy chief and the head of the&nbsp;European Council, which gathers&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;of the&nbsp;EU's 28 member states.

Merkel called on Monday for a swift decision and an official from Macron's office said he too would "ideally" want the process finished in June. But the two&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;have differing views on how to pick a Commission chief.

The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;would risk an institutional logjam if talks are prolonged, leaving it unable to make key policy decisions at a time when it faces a more assertive Russia, China's growing economic might and the unpredictable US&nbsp;president.

Leaders&nbsp;of a majority of parties in the newly elected chamber on Monday called on the national&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;to nominate a lawmaker to replace Jean-Claude Juncker as Commission chief.

Merkel officially favours the EPP candidate, German conservative Manfred Weber, to take over at the Commission.

But Weber has so far failed to rally the other&nbsp;EU&nbsp;assembly groups and a dinner he had wanted to host late on Monday with the S&amp;D, the liberal ALDE and the Greens was cancelled.

"The EPP is ready for all the necessary compromises," Weber said on Monday.

HARD TO CALL

Together, those four parties would hold 504 seats in the new&nbsp;EU&nbsp;chamber, according to the latest provisional results, comfortably enough to approve or reject any pick made by the 28 national&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;for the top Brussels posting.

Macron, meanwhile, will on Tuesday push against the "Spitzenkandidat" system whereby a lawmaker selected by the&nbsp;European assembly should get the Commission job.

On Monday night he met Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is seeking a bigger political role for Madrid at the top of the&nbsp;EU.

A raft of separate face-to-face talks will take place in Brussels on Tuesday before all the&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;-- including outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May -- meet at 1600 GMT.

Their chairman, ex-Polish premier Donald Tusk, does not expect the package to be agreed on Tuesday but will continue consultations with capitals after the debate among&nbsp;leaders.

He also wants to have names ready for the new&nbsp;European Parliament's approval in July as otherwise the whole process risks getting delayed until autumn.

Unanimity is not required and current Commission president Juncker got the job despite opposition from London and with Budapest abstaining in 2014.

But it is hard to see a candidate succeeding against the will of more than just a handful of&nbsp;leaders, as that would risk hurting their cooperation in the future and stalling the&nbsp;EU's decision-making processes.

The obscure and difficult-to-call recruitment process will be a compromise between requirements of geography and political affiliation, as well as the candidates' own profiles.

Other names already in the running include Juncker's current deputy and Dutch social democrat Frans Timmermans, the bloc's Brexit negotiator, Frenchman Michel Barnier, and outgoing Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic, a Slovak.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will lock horns in Brussels on Tuesday as European Union leaders meet to begin bargaining over who will take the bloc's top jobs for the next five years.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will lock horns in Brussels on Tuesday as European Union leaders meet to begin bargaining over who will take the bloc's top jobs for the next five years. An EU-wide election last week returned a European Parliament with a splintered centre and gains by pro-EU liberals and greens as well as eurosceptic nationalists and the far-right. The centrist European People's Party (EPP) and Socialists & Democrats (S&D) can only count on 326 seats in the new, 751-strong chamber. That is short of the 376-seat majority needed to approve a new head for the bloc's executive European Commission. Other big roles up for grabs later this year include the head of the European Parliament and the European Central Bank, the bloc's foreign policy chief and the head of the European Council, which gathers leaders of the EU's 28 member states. Merkel called on Monday for a swift decision and an official from Macron's office said he too would "ideally" want the process finished in June. But the two leaders have differing views on how to pick a Commission chief. The EU would risk an institutional logjam if talks are prolonged, leaving it unable to make key policy decisions at a time when it faces a more assertive Russia, China's growing economic might and the unpredictable US president. Leaders of a majority of parties in the newly elected chamber on Monday called on the national leaders to nominate a lawmaker to replace Jean-Claude Juncker as Commission chief. Merkel officially favours the EPP candidate, German conservative Manfred Weber, to take over at the Commission. But Weber has so far failed to rally the other EU assembly groups and a dinner he had wanted to host late on Monday with the S&D, the liberal ALDE and the Greens was cancelled. "The EPP is ready for all the necessary compromises," Weber said on Monday. HARD TO CALL Together, those four parties would hold 504 seats in the new EU chamber, according to the latest provisional results, comfortably enough to approve or reject any pick made by the 28 national leaders for the top Brussels posting. Macron, meanwhile, will on Tuesday push against the "Spitzenkandidat" system whereby a lawmaker selected by the European assembly should get the Commission job. On Monday night he met Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is seeking a bigger political role for Madrid at the top of the EU. A raft of separate face-to-face talks will take place in Brussels on Tuesday before all the leaders -- including outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May -- meet at 1600 GMT. Their chairman, ex-Polish premier Donald Tusk, does not expect the package to be agreed on Tuesday but will continue consultations with capitals after the debate among leaders. He also wants to have names ready for the new European Parliament's approval in July as otherwise the whole process risks getting delayed until autumn. Unanimity is not required and current Commission president Juncker got the job despite opposition from London and with Budapest abstaining in 2014. But it is hard to see a candidate succeeding against the will of more than just a handful of leaders, as that would risk hurting their cooperation in the future and stalling the EU's decision-making processes. The obscure and difficult-to-call recruitment process will be a compromise between requirements of geography and political affiliation, as well as the candidates' own profiles. Other names already in the running include Juncker's current deputy and Dutch social democrat Frans Timmermans, the bloc's Brexit negotiator, Frenchman Michel Barnier, and outgoing Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic, a Slovak.

European Union leaders fire starting gun for top jobs race

Pro-European&nbsp;parties&nbsp;kept a firm grip on the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;on Monday as liberal and green&nbsp;parties&nbsp;matched a&nbsp;surge&nbsp;by&nbsp;eurosceptic&nbsp;parties, who won control of a quarter of seats in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-wave-in-eu-vote-amid-climate-crisis-221921">European elections </a>for the first time.

The far-right and&nbsp;nationalists&nbsp;in Italy, Britain, France and Poland came out on top in their national votes on Sunday, shaking up politics at home but failing to dramatically alter the balance of&nbsp;pro-European power in&nbsp;EU&nbsp;assembly.

Facing a more hostile Russia, China's growing economic might and an unpredictable US President Donald Trump, many&nbsp;Europeans appeared to heed a message that the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;needed to stick together to&nbsp;protect workers' rights, free speech and democracy.

"We are going to build a social&nbsp;Europe, a&nbsp;Europe that&nbsp;protects," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-votes-in-second-round-local-regional-eu-polls-221755">Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez</a>, whose revival among Spanish voters offset a fall in centre-left support in Germany, told a news conference late on Sunday night.

Investor sentiment was bolstered by the smaller than expected gains by populist&nbsp;parties. However, the drop in support for the main centre-right and centre-left blocs could complicate policymaking and require broader cross-party agreements and discipline, market analysts said.

Provisional results published at 08:18 GMT on Monday showed the Socialists, Greens, liberals and conservatives with 507 of the 751 seats in the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Parliament, which helps pass laws for more than 500 million&nbsp;Europeans.

The search for a majority, as well as securing the top&nbsp;EU&nbsp;jobs, will now dominate as&nbsp;pro-EU&nbsp;groups seek to shield the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;from anti-establishment forces, who want to break up the world's largest trading bloc but who are split over its future.

French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist Renaissance platform added to gains for liberals at the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;level while support for the Greens&nbsp;surged, giving four groups the&nbsp;pro-middle ground and holding on to two-thirds of seats.

Macron and Sanchez were to meet later on Monday, the first in a series of meetings between&nbsp;EU&nbsp;leaders before they gather for a summit on Tuesday evening in Brussels to discuss the outcome of the&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;vote.

BREXIT, FAR-RIGHT&nbsp;PROTEST

A stronger voice for the liberals and Greens could see the next&nbsp;EU&nbsp;executive seek a tougher line on regulating polluting industries, taxing multinational companies or demanding trading partners help contain climate change.

They could also press&nbsp;EU&nbsp;member states, notably in the east, not to damage civil rights.

Cries of "Europe is back" among voters waving blue and gold&nbsp;EU&nbsp;flags outside&nbsp;European&nbsp;Parliament&nbsp;in Brussels on Sunday night also showed the ebullient mood among&nbsp;Europeans delighted with a sharply higher turnout across the bloc.

Turnout in the world's second-biggest election rose to 51% from 43% in 2014, its highest in 20 years and the first reverse of falling participation since the first direct&nbsp;EU&nbsp;vote in 1979.

Disenchantment with the&nbsp;European&nbsp;project, which has struggled through economic and migration crises over the past five years, has made the bloc seem distant to voters and anger with the traditional&nbsp;parties&nbsp;was palpable across the bloc.

Riding a wave of anger at the British government's failure to take the United Kingdom out of the&nbsp;European Union, Nigel Farage's Brexit Party won a resounding victory.

The result showed Britain even more polarised over its Brexit divorce, nearly three years since a 2016 referendum in which it voted 52% to 48% to leave.

While Britain's departure from the bloc will require its&nbsp;EU&nbsp;lawmakers to give up their seats, Farage's party and its allies won 29 seats, the same number as Chancellor Angela Merkel's centre-right&nbsp;European People's Party in Germany.

In Italy, the far-right League became Italy's largest party, giving greater authority to its leader Matteo Salvini who is pushing for swingeing tax cuts in defiance of&nbsp;EU&nbsp;budget rules.

Poland's&nbsp;eurosceptic ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) also came out ahead. In France, Marine Le Pen's anti-immigration, anti-Brussels National Rally edged Macron's&nbsp;pro-European centrist movement. Far-right separatists also saw support&nbsp;surge&nbsp;in Belgium.

FIGHT FOR&nbsp;EU&nbsp;POSTS

Provisional results for the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Parliament&nbsp;put the EPP on 182 seats, ahead of the S&amp;D on 147, with the liberals on 109, up 41 seats, and Greens on 69, up 17. On the far-right, two groups in the&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;had well over 100 seats, a 40% jump from 2014.

Three existing&nbsp;eurosceptic groups, including those of Le Pen and Salvini's League, will make up about 25% of the chamber, up from around 20 per cent in the current&nbsp;parliament.

With four, rather than two, centrist alliances in the assembly, it is less clear who will be the next head of the Commission," Guntram Wolff, the director of think-tank Bruegel, told Reuters. "First the&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;needs a coalition agreement on substance and personalities," he said.

That agreement should include more humane immigration policies and tackling climate change, said Maria Nyman, secretary general of charity Caritas&nbsp;Europa.

Leaders for the four&nbsp;pro-EU&nbsp;centre&nbsp;parties&nbsp;were set to hold their first talks on Monday and there will be weeks and possibly months of hard bargaining over who will run&nbsp;EU institutions.

Parliament&nbsp;says one of its members should succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the executive&nbsp;European Commission but many national leaders, who will meet for dinner in Brussels on Tuesday, have said they will not be bound by that demand.

Pro-European parties kept a firm grip on the EU parliament on Monday as liberal and green parties matched a surge by eurosceptic parties, who won control of a quarter of seats in European elections for the first time.

Pro-European parties kept a firm grip on the EU parliament on Monday as liberal and green parties matched a surge by eurosceptic parties, who won control of a quarter of seats in European elections for the first time. The far-right and nationalists in Italy, Britain, France and Poland came out on top in their national votes on Sunday, shaking up politics at home but failing to dramatically alter the balance of pro-European power in EU assembly. Facing a more hostile Russia, China's growing economic might and an unpredictable US President Donald Trump, many Europeans appeared to heed a message that the EU needed to stick together to protect workers' rights, free speech and democracy. "We are going to build a social Europe, a Europe that protects," Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, whose revival among Spanish voters offset a fall in centre-left support in Germany, told a news conference late on Sunday night. Investor sentiment was bolstered by the smaller than expected gains by populist parties. However, the drop in support for the main centre-right and centre-left blocs could complicate policymaking and require broader cross-party agreements and discipline, market analysts said. Provisional results published at 08:18 GMT on Monday showed the Socialists, Greens, liberals and conservatives with 507 of the 751 seats in the EU Parliament, which helps pass laws for more than 500 million Europeans. The search for a majority, as well as securing the top EU jobs, will now dominate as pro-EU groups seek to shield the EU from anti-establishment forces, who want to break up the world's largest trading bloc but who are split over its future. French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist Renaissance platform added to gains for liberals at the EU level while support for the Greens surged, giving four groups the pro-middle ground and holding on to two-thirds of seats. Macron and Sanchez were to meet later on Monday, the first in a series of meetings between EU leaders before they gather for a summit on Tuesday evening in Brussels to discuss the outcome of the parliament vote. BREXIT, FAR-RIGHT PROTEST A stronger voice for the liberals and Greens could see the next EU executive seek a tougher line on regulating polluting industries, taxing multinational companies or demanding trading partners help contain climate change. They could also press EU member states, notably in the east, not to damage civil rights. Cries of "Europe is back" among voters waving blue and gold EU flags outside European Parliament in Brussels on Sunday night also showed the ebullient mood among Europeans delighted with a sharply higher turnout across the bloc. Turnout in the world's second-biggest election rose to 51% from 43% in 2014, its highest in 20 years and the first reverse of falling participation since the first direct EU vote in 1979. Disenchantment with the European project, which has struggled through economic and migration crises over the past five years, has made the bloc seem distant to voters and anger with the traditional parties was palpable across the bloc. Riding a wave of anger at the British government's failure to take the United Kingdom out of the European Union, Nigel Farage's Brexit Party won a resounding victory. The result showed Britain even more polarised over its Brexit divorce, nearly three years since a 2016 referendum in which it voted 52% to 48% to leave. While Britain's departure from the bloc will require its EU lawmakers to give up their seats, Farage's party and its allies won 29 seats, the same number as Chancellor Angela Merkel's centre-right European People's Party in Germany. In Italy, the far-right League became Italy's largest party, giving greater authority to its leader Matteo Salvini who is pushing for swingeing tax cuts in defiance of EU budget rules. Poland's eurosceptic ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) also came out ahead. In France, Marine Le Pen's anti-immigration, anti-Brussels National Rally edged Macron's pro-European centrist movement. Far-right separatists also saw support surge in Belgium. FIGHT FOR EU POSTS Provisional results for the EU Parliament put the EPP on 182 seats, ahead of the S&D on 147, with the liberals on 109, up 41 seats, and Greens on 69, up 17. On the far-right, two groups in the parliament had well over 100 seats, a 40% jump from 2014. Three existing eurosceptic groups, including those of Le Pen and Salvini's League, will make up about 25% of the chamber, up from around 20 per cent in the current parliament. With four, rather than two, centrist alliances in the assembly, it is less clear who will be the next head of the Commission," Guntram Wolff, the director of think-tank Bruegel, told Reuters. "First the parliament needs a coalition agreement on substance and personalities," he said. That agreement should include more humane immigration policies and tackling climate change, said Maria Nyman, secretary general of charity Caritas Europa. Leaders for the four pro-EU centre parties were set to hold their first talks on Monday and there will be weeks and possibly months of hard bargaining over who will run EU institutions. Parliament says one of its members should succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the executive European Commission but many national leaders, who will meet for dinner in Brussels on Tuesday, have said they will not be bound by that demand.

Nationalists surge in EU Parliament, but pro-EU parties remain dominant

Spain votes in local, regional and European elections on Sunday seen as a "second round" for acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez as he seeks to form a new government and gain influence in the EU.

The polls come a month after general elections on April 28 in which Sanchez's Socialist Party (PSOE) came first but without a majority in parliament.

He is hoping the party will perform well on Sunday so he can opt for his preferred plan of forming a minority government with the support of other parties on a case by case basis when passing laws.

But he will also be looking to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-votes-as-populists-seek-historic-breakthrough-221538">European Union</a>, where Sanchez has emerged as the big hope for European social democrats, the second largest bloc in the European parliament.

Spain could be the only major EU member state where the Socialists come out top in elections to the European parliament.

On Friday, outgoing Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, whom Spain could push to become the EU foreign policy chief, told supporters Sanchez was going to "lead the resurgence of social democracy in Europe".

In a sign of Spain's increasing assertiveness in the EU and as of Sunday's polls neared, the government on Friday reacted strongly to British Prime Minister Theresa May's resignation.

"Under these circumstances, a hard Brexit appears to be a reality that is near impossible to stop," Spanish government spokeswoman Isabel Celaa warned as May's resignation paves the way for hardliners to take over.

She added Britain's anticipated "disorderly exit" from the EU was "a clear example of what can happen if we let ourselves get swept along by extremes".

Podemos or not?&nbsp;

On the domestic front, the results of local and regional elections may determine what Spain's new government looks like and Sanchez has urged supporters to "finish the work" of the general election and turn out in force.

"I'm asking for a vote on May 26 that is coherent with that of April 28," he said Friday.

While Sanchez wants to rule alone in a minority government, Pablo Iglesias, the leader of far-left party Podemos, is pushing him to form a coalition government.

Whether Sanchez accepts or not may depend on how both parties fare.

The Socialists "might need the support of Podemos to retain power in some regions, which Iglesias might use to pressure Sanchez into forming a coalition," said Teneo analyst Antonio Barroso.

But "Iglesias' party is on the decline according to the most recent polls, and PSOE might enjoy a certain 'honeymoon effect' after its victory in the April legislative election.&nbsp;

"If the distance between the two parties widens after Sunday, Sanchez will be in an even stronger position to head a minority government."

Polls suggest the Socialists will come out on top in most of the 12 regions going to the polls on Sunday.

But all eyes will be on Madrid which could swing left after being governed by the conservative Popular Party for 24 years.

Spain votes in local, regional and European elections on Sunday seen as a "second round" for acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez as he seeks to form a new government and gain influence in the EU.

Spain votes in local, regional and European elections on Sunday seen as a "second round" for acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez as he seeks to form a new government and gain influence in the EU. The polls come a month after general elections on April 28 in which Sanchez's Socialist Party (PSOE) came first but without a majority in parliament. He is hoping the party will perform well on Sunday so he can opt for his preferred plan of forming a minority government with the support of other parties on a case by case basis when passing laws. But he will also be looking to the European Union, where Sanchez has emerged as the big hope for European social democrats, the second largest bloc in the European parliament. Spain could be the only major EU member state where the Socialists come out top in elections to the European parliament. On Friday, outgoing Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, whom Spain could push to become the EU foreign policy chief, told supporters Sanchez was going to "lead the resurgence of social democracy in Europe". In a sign of Spain's increasing assertiveness in the EU and as of Sunday's polls neared, the government on Friday reacted strongly to British Prime Minister Theresa May's resignation. "Under these circumstances, a hard Brexit appears to be a reality that is near impossible to stop," Spanish government spokeswoman Isabel Celaa warned as May's resignation paves the way for hardliners to take over. She added Britain's anticipated "disorderly exit" from the EU was "a clear example of what can happen if we let ourselves get swept along by extremes". Podemos or not? On the domestic front, the results of local and regional elections may determine what Spain's new government looks like and Sanchez has urged supporters to "finish the work" of the general election and turn out in force. "I'm asking for a vote on May 26 that is coherent with that of April 28," he said Friday. While Sanchez wants to rule alone in a minority government, Pablo Iglesias, the leader of far-left party Podemos, is pushing him to form a coalition government. Whether Sanchez accepts or not may depend on how both parties fare. The Socialists "might need the support of Podemos to retain power in some regions, which Iglesias might use to pressure Sanchez into forming a coalition," said Teneo analyst Antonio Barroso. But "Iglesias' party is on the decline according to the most recent polls, and PSOE might enjoy a certain 'honeymoon effect' after its victory in the April legislative election. "If the distance between the two parties widens after Sunday, Sanchez will be in an even stronger position to head a minority government." Polls suggest the Socialists will come out on top in most of the 12 regions going to the polls on Sunday. But all eyes will be on Madrid which could swing left after being governed by the conservative Popular Party for 24 years.

Spain votes in 'second round' local, regional, European Union polls

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jailed-catalan-separatists-elected-to-parliament-in-spain-polls-214246">Catalan separatists</a> were released from jail on Monday to obtain their formal certificates as elected MPs the day before the Spanish parliament is to open in Madrid.

The four MPs and a senator, elected in April, arrived at the two chambers early Monday in military police vehicles. They were barred from speaking to reporters.

The five, who have been in custody for more than a year, will return to their cells at the Soto del Real prison near Madrid after carrying out the formality.

The Supreme Court, which has been trying the men for their role in an October 2017 secession attempt in Catalonia, ruled last week that they could also attend the opening session of parliament and take the oath of office on Tuesday.

But the court ruled against definitively releasing the five, who include the former vice president of the wealthy northeastern region, Oriol Junqueras.

And parliament is to decide whether to suspend their functions as lawmakers until the top court reaches a verdict on the rebellion charges against them.

Junqueras, 50, was elected an MP as a member of the Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC). He faces 25 years in prison in Catalonia.

The others include civic leader Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Turull, Catalonia's government spokesman at the time of the failed attempt to break from Spain.

Both were candidates for Together for Catalonia, the party of Catalonia's former president Carles Puigdemont, who fled Spain and avoided arrest.

Josep Rull, also formerly part of Catalonia's regional government, was another elected to the lower house, while Raul Romeva, in charge of Catalonia's foreign affairs at the time of the secession bid, was elected to the upper house Senate.

They were all part of a push to hold an independence referendum in October 2017 in defiance of a court ban.

That sparked Spain's deepest political crisis in decades, with the referendum followed by a short-lived declaration of independence.

Spain's then conservative prime minister moved in, taking direct control of the region, sacking the Catalan executive and calling snap polls.

Spain's April elections saw Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's socialists win but without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far right's entry into parliament.

As such, Sanchez could need the backing of Catalan separatist lawmakers like the five jailed politicians.

During the parliament's opening session, the five Catalan lawmakers will have to promise to honour the Spanish constitution which calls for the "unbreakable unity" of Spain.

Catalan separatists were released from jail on Monday to obtain their formal certificates as elected MPs the day before the Spanish parliament is to open in Madrid.

Catalan separatists were released from jail on Monday to obtain their formal certificates as elected MPs the day before the Spanish parliament is to open in Madrid. The four MPs and a senator, elected in April, arrived at the two chambers early Monday in military police vehicles. They were barred from speaking to reporters. The five, who have been in custody for more than a year, will return to their cells at the Soto del Real prison near Madrid after carrying out the formality. The Supreme Court, which has been trying the men for their role in an October 2017 secession attempt in Catalonia, ruled last week that they could also attend the opening session of parliament and take the oath of office on Tuesday. But the court ruled against definitively releasing the five, who include the former vice president of the wealthy northeastern region, Oriol Junqueras. And parliament is to decide whether to suspend their functions as lawmakers until the top court reaches a verdict on the rebellion charges against them. Junqueras, 50, was elected an MP as a member of the Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC). He faces 25 years in prison in Catalonia. The others include civic leader Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Turull, Catalonia's government spokesman at the time of the failed attempt to break from Spain. Both were candidates for Together for Catalonia, the party of Catalonia's former president Carles Puigdemont, who fled Spain and avoided arrest. Josep Rull, also formerly part of Catalonia's regional government, was another elected to the lower house, while Raul Romeva, in charge of Catalonia's foreign affairs at the time of the secession bid, was elected to the upper house Senate. They were all part of a push to hold an independence referendum in October 2017 in defiance of a court ban. That sparked Spain's deepest political crisis in decades, with the referendum followed by a short-lived declaration of independence. Spain's then conservative prime minister moved in, taking direct control of the region, sacking the Catalan executive and calling snap polls. Spain's April elections saw Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's socialists win but without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far right's entry into parliament. As such, Sanchez could need the backing of Catalan separatist lawmakers like the five jailed politicians. During the parliament's opening session, the five Catalan lawmakers will have to promise to honour the Spanish constitution which calls for the "unbreakable unity" of Spain.

Spain's Catalan separatists let out of jail for induction as MPs

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez looks set to regain power after his Socialists overcame a historic challenge by right-wing nationalists in elections on Sunday, a result he portrayed as a morale booster for the European Union.

The Socialists gained seats in one of Spain's most hotly contested elections in decades, which featured the rise of far-right party Vox whose ultra-nationalist campaign echoed political trends across Europe where traditional parties have ceded to anti-immigration and eurosceptic forces.

However, the rise of Vox also splintered the right-wing vote, further fragmenting Spain's political landscape and playing into the hands of the Socialists which won an almost 50 per cent increase in seats.

"The Socialists have won the general election," Sanchez declared, smiling broadly as he addressed jubilant supporters at party headquarters in Madrid. Outside, hundreds celebrated in the street, waving red party flags and chanting 'Long live Spain' and 'Long live Socialism'.

"Social democracy has a great future because it has a great present and Spain is an example of that. We will form a pro-European government to strengthen and not weaken Europe," he added.

The result is likely to come as a relief for supporters of further European Union integration ahead of May 26 elections for European Parliament amid fears that Vox could have gained a share of power in Spain.

Vox secured one in 10 votes and 24 seats, the first far-right party to get a sizeable presence in parliament since the country's return to democracy in the late 1970s, but it did not get the kingmaker role it was looking for.

Far left-wing party Podemos immediately offered to open coalition talks with Sanchez, though the two parties together cannot command a majority.

"I have expressed to him ... our willingness to work towards a coalition government," Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias told supporters in Madrid. Forming such a coalition "will take much time and I would ask for your patience", he added.

The Socialists and Podemos are set to fall around 11 seats short of a parliamentary majority, but bridging the gap would require Sanchez to also rely on Basque nationalists and other small parties.

It was unclear in the early hours of Monday if he would also require the support of separatist lawmakers from Catalonia, the country's richest region where a push for independence flared into violence two years ago.

"Pedro Sanchez is in a good position," said Pablo Simon, a political science professor at Madrid's Carlos III University.

A government deal would be complicated and certainly not be clinched before next month's European Parliament elections, he added.

The keys to power

Sanchez appears to have two options to put together a coalition.

If he wants to rule with Podemos, near-final voting data showed he would need the support of smaller parties to at least abstain.

According to Sunday night's count, he would require one Catalan separatist lawmaker to abstain but some seats were too close to call. The picture may still change when the count is finalised in the first two weeks of May.

If Sanchez does not need to rely on Catalan separatists, who brought down his minority government, he may have the more political freedom to deal with the Catalan independence movement. The issue was at the heart of the election campaign and has at times unnerved eurozone investors and the rest of the EU.

Alternatively, Sanchez could turn to center-right Ciudadanos. Together, the Socialists and Ciudadanos would have an outright majority.

Though he and Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera have sharply different views on Catalonia and both ruled out forming an alliance during the campaign, speculation persists that the pair could yet strike a coalition deal. Rivera repeated after the election that he would be in the opposition.

Spaniards cast their votes in numbers close to record highs with campaigning dominated by national identity and cultural values like women's rights rather than the economy.

This is the third national election in four years after the first two eroded the decades-long dominance of the two biggest parties, the Socialists and the conservative Popular Party (PP).

By party, Sanchez's Socialists led with 123 seats in the 350-seat parliament. The PP stood at 66 seats, centre-right Ciudadanos ('Citizens') at 57 seats, Podemos at 42 and Vox at 24.

The big loser was the PP, which lost more than half its seats in the lower house of parliament and also lost control of the Senate to the Socialists.

In Spain, issues like mass immigration or Euroscepticism that have dominated political discourse elsewhere have been eclipsed by the question of national unity and the threat posed by the Catalan independence movement.

The economy, one of the euro zone's stars performers, took a back seat in campaigning across the political parties.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez looks set to regain power after his Socialists overcame a historic challenge by right-wing nationalists in elections on Sunday, a result he portrayed as a morale booster for the European Union.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez looks set to regain power after his Socialists overcame a historic challenge by right-wing nationalists in elections on Sunday, a result he portrayed as a morale booster for the European Union. The Socialists gained seats in one of Spain's most hotly contested elections in decades, which featured the rise of far-right party Vox whose ultra-nationalist campaign echoed political trends across Europe where traditional parties have ceded to anti-immigration and eurosceptic forces. However, the rise of Vox also splintered the right-wing vote, further fragmenting Spain's political landscape and playing into the hands of the Socialists which won an almost 50 per cent increase in seats. "The Socialists have won the general election," Sanchez declared, smiling broadly as he addressed jubilant supporters at party headquarters in Madrid. Outside, hundreds celebrated in the street, waving red party flags and chanting 'Long live Spain' and 'Long live Socialism'. "Social democracy has a great future because it has a great present and Spain is an example of that. We will form a pro-European government to strengthen and not weaken Europe," he added. The result is likely to come as a relief for supporters of further European Union integration ahead of May 26 elections for European Parliament amid fears that Vox could have gained a share of power in Spain. Vox secured one in 10 votes and 24 seats, the first far-right party to get a sizeable presence in parliament since the country's return to democracy in the late 1970s, but it did not get the kingmaker role it was looking for. Far left-wing party Podemos immediately offered to open coalition talks with Sanchez, though the two parties together cannot command a majority. "I have expressed to him ... our willingness to work towards a coalition government," Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias told supporters in Madrid. Forming such a coalition "will take much time and I would ask for your patience", he added. The Socialists and Podemos are set to fall around 11 seats short of a parliamentary majority, but bridging the gap would require Sanchez to also rely on Basque nationalists and other small parties. It was unclear in the early hours of Monday if he would also require the support of separatist lawmakers from Catalonia, the country's richest region where a push for independence flared into violence two years ago. "Pedro Sanchez is in a good position," said Pablo Simon, a political science professor at Madrid's Carlos III University. A government deal would be complicated and certainly not be clinched before next month's European Parliament elections, he added. The keys to power Sanchez appears to have two options to put together a coalition. If he wants to rule with Podemos, near-final voting data showed he would need the support of smaller parties to at least abstain. According to Sunday night's count, he would require one Catalan separatist lawmaker to abstain but some seats were too close to call. The picture may still change when the count is finalised in the first two weeks of May. If Sanchez does not need to rely on Catalan separatists, who brought down his minority government, he may have the more political freedom to deal with the Catalan independence movement. The issue was at the heart of the election campaign and has at times unnerved eurozone investors and the rest of the EU. Alternatively, Sanchez could turn to center-right Ciudadanos. Together, the Socialists and Ciudadanos would have an outright majority. Though he and Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera have sharply different views on Catalonia and both ruled out forming an alliance during the campaign, speculation persists that the pair could yet strike a coalition deal. Rivera repeated after the election that he would be in the opposition. Spaniards cast their votes in numbers close to record highs with campaigning dominated by national identity and cultural values like women's rights rather than the economy. This is the third national election in four years after the first two eroded the decades-long dominance of the two biggest parties, the Socialists and the conservative Popular Party (PP). By party, Sanchez's Socialists led with 123 seats in the 350-seat parliament. The PP stood at 66 seats, centre-right Ciudadanos ('Citizens') at 57 seats, Podemos at 42 and Vox at 24. The big loser was the PP, which lost more than half its seats in the lower house of parliament and also lost control of the Senate to the Socialists. In Spain, issues like mass immigration or Euroscepticism that have dominated political discourse elsewhere have been eclipsed by the question of national unity and the threat posed by the Catalan independence movement. The economy, one of the euro zone's stars performers, took a back seat in campaigning across the political parties.

Spain's Socialists on course to regain power but talks await

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Congress candidate from Mumbai North, Urmila Matondkar cast her vote at a polling booth in Bandra while veteran actress Shubha Khote exercised her franchise at a polling booth in Juhu, Mumbai.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-pm-pedro-sanchez-win-snap-polls-marked-by-far-right-gains-214244">Spain PM Pedro Sanchez wins snap polls marked by far-right gains</a>

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won snap elections Sunday without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/post-easter-attacks-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-bans-face-covering-214265">Post Easter attacks, Sri Lanka President Sirisena bans face covering</a>

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday announced a ban on face covering, a week after Islamist militants carried out coordinated suicide bombings that killed 253 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-spending-up-for-first-time-in-seven-years-sipri-214258">US military spending up for first time in seven years: SIPRI</a>

US military spending has risen for the first time in seven years, reflecting Trump administration policy, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-was-face-to-face-with-california-synagogue-shooter-rabbi-yisroel-goldstein-214268">I was face to face with California synagogue shooter: Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein</a>

A 19-year-old man who authorities said gave himself up to police shortly after carrying out a deadly shooting in a Southern California synagogue filled with Sabbath worshippers is also under investigation for a mosque arson.

Live Lok Sabha polls: 72 Lok Sabha seats in 9 states go to polls in phase 4 Congress candidate from Mumbai North, Urmila Matondkar cast her vote at a polling booth in Bandra while veteran actress Shubha Khote exercised her franchise at a polling booth in Juhu, Mumbai.

Live Lok Sabha polls: 72 Lok Sabha seats in 9 states go to polls in phase 4 Congress candidate from Mumbai North, Urmila Matondkar cast her vote at a polling booth in Bandra while veteran actress Shubha Khote exercised her franchise at a polling booth in Juhu, Mumbai. Spain PM Pedro Sanchez wins snap polls marked by far-right gains Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won snap elections Sunday without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament. Post Easter attacks, Sri Lanka President Sirisena bans face covering Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday announced a ban on face covering, a week after Islamist militants carried out coordinated suicide bombings that killed 253 people. US military spending up for first time in seven years: SIPRI US military spending has risen for the first time in seven years, reflecting Trump administration policy, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). I was face to face with California synagogue shooter: Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein A 19-year-old man who authorities said gave himself up to police shortly after carrying out a deadly shooting in a Southern California synagogue filled with Sabbath worshippers is also under investigation for a mosque arson.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Incumbent Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez told supporters that Socialist party winning the country's general election meant the "future has won and the past has lost."

Spain election: PM Sanchez welcomes Socialists' win in election

Five jailed Catalan separatists were elected in Spanish elections on Sunday, as their parties made gains in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-pm-pedro-sanchez-win-snap-polls-marked-by-far-right-gains-214244">snap polls won by the socialists</a> and also marked by the emergence of the far-right.

The northeastern region's former vice-president Oriol Junqueras, who along with then Catalan president Carles Puigdemont instigated a secession attempt in 2017, was one of those elected to the lower house.

He led the list of his ERC separatist party.

Others include civic leader Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Turull, Catalonia's government spokesman at the time of the attempt to break from Spain in October 2017.

Both were candidates for Together for Catalonia, the party of Puigdemont, who fled Spain and avoided arrest.

Josep Rull, also part of Catalonia's regional government at that time, was also elected to the lower house.

Raul Romeva, in charge of Catalonia's foreign affairs at the time of the secession bid, was elected to the Senate.

All are in jail and are currently being tried at Spain's Supreme Court.

The elections saw Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's socialists win, but without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament.

Five jailed Catalan separatists were elected in Spanish elections on Sunday, as their parties made gains in snap polls won by the socialists and also marked by the emergence of the far-right.

Five jailed Catalan separatists were elected in Spanish elections on Sunday, as their parties made gains in snap polls won by the socialists and also marked by the emergence of the far-right. The northeastern region's former vice-president Oriol Junqueras, who along with then Catalan president Carles Puigdemont instigated a secession attempt in 2017, was one of those elected to the lower house. He led the list of his ERC separatist party. Others include civic leader Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Turull, Catalonia's government spokesman at the time of the attempt to break from Spain in October 2017. Both were candidates for Together for Catalonia, the party of Puigdemont, who fled Spain and avoided arrest. Josep Rull, also part of Catalonia's regional government at that time, was also elected to the lower house. Raul Romeva, in charge of Catalonia's foreign affairs at the time of the secession bid, was elected to the Senate. All are in jail and are currently being tried at Spain's Supreme Court. The elections saw Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's socialists win, but without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament.

Jailed Catalan separatists elected to parliament in Spain polls

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-five-main-election-candidates-214069">snap elections Sunday</a> without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament.

The results raise the spectre of another period of instability for Spain, with Sanchez depending on alliances with hostile rivals in an environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid in 2017.

A significant development was the rise of the ultra-nationalist Vox party, which garnered just over 10 per cent of the vote in a country that has had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

Sanchez's Socialist Party (PSOE) got 123 lawmakers out of 350, or close to 29 per cent of votes -- short of an absolute majority but much better than the 85 seats it got in 2016.

"The Socialists have won the general election and with it the future has won and the past has lost," he told cheering supporters from the balcony of the party's headquarters in Madrid, claiming victory late Sunday.

The big loser was the conservative Popular Party (PP), which bagged 66 seats compared to 137 in the previous election that saw it govern Spain with a minority government.

Possible alliances

Sanchez, who came to power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, could seek to forge alliances with far-left Podemos and smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties, as he had done over the past 10 months.

He could also try to cosy up to centre-right Ciudadanos, which won 57 seats. Together, they would form an absolute majority but voters from both parties would likely frown on such a move.

"I hope Sanchez won't reach an agreement with Ciudadanos, I want a left-wing government," 51-year-old Esther Lopez, said at the Socialist Party headquarters, wearing earrings marked "PSOE."

Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera, built his campaign on disparaging Sanchez, criticising his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatist parties in a bid to ease a secession crisis in the northeastern region.

Far-right emergence

The crisis in Catalonia was precisely what fuelled Vox's meteoric rise from the outer margins of politics to the national scene, after gaining nearly 11 per cent of votes in December regional polls in southern Andalusia.

Founded by Santiago Abascal, a disgruntled former PP member, it will now take 24 seats in the national parliament.

This is less than what opinion polls had predicted.

"I thought Vox would get way more votes, with this result Vox won't have any weight in parliament as no one supports them. We needed more seats," said Maria Bonilla Ortega, a 22-year-old philosophy student in central Madrid, a Spanish flag draped around her shoulders.

Abascal was more optimistic: "We can tell Spain with complete calm that Vox has come to stay," he told cheering supporters.

After a tense campaign, voter turnout was high at 75.76 per cent, up from 66.48 per cent in 2016, election authorities said.

Catalonia shadow

With a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox stood out with ultra-nationalist rhetoric advocating the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end" and a hard line against separatists in Catalonia.

The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest political crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe.

The issue has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics.

Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget.

Right-wing parties for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for talking with separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of cosying up to those who tried to break up Spain.

That controversy is likely to continue as two Catalan separatist parties gained even more lawmakers in the national parliament than they did in 2016 -- up to 22 from 17.

In a sign of the impact the crisis had on voters, Dolores Palomo, a 48-year-old domestic worker, said she had always voted for the socialists but cast her ballot for Ciudadanos this time at a polling station in Hospitalet de Llobregat, near Barcelona.

The reason? Sanchez "is a puppet of the separatists," she said.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won snap elections Sunday without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won snap elections Sunday without the necessary majority to govern solo in a fragmented political landscape marked by the far-right's entry into parliament. The results raise the spectre of another period of instability for Spain, with Sanchez depending on alliances with hostile rivals in an environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid in 2017. A significant development was the rise of the ultra-nationalist Vox party, which garnered just over 10 per cent of the vote in a country that has had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975. Sanchez's Socialist Party (PSOE) got 123 lawmakers out of 350, or close to 29 per cent of votes -- short of an absolute majority but much better than the 85 seats it got in 2016. "The Socialists have won the general election and with it the future has won and the past has lost," he told cheering supporters from the balcony of the party's headquarters in Madrid, claiming victory late Sunday. The big loser was the conservative Popular Party (PP), which bagged 66 seats compared to 137 in the previous election that saw it govern Spain with a minority government. Possible alliances Sanchez, who came to power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, could seek to forge alliances with far-left Podemos and smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties, as he had done over the past 10 months. He could also try to cosy up to centre-right Ciudadanos, which won 57 seats. Together, they would form an absolute majority but voters from both parties would likely frown on such a move. "I hope Sanchez won't reach an agreement with Ciudadanos, I want a left-wing government," 51-year-old Esther Lopez, said at the Socialist Party headquarters, wearing earrings marked "PSOE." Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera, built his campaign on disparaging Sanchez, criticising his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatist parties in a bid to ease a secession crisis in the northeastern region. Far-right emergence The crisis in Catalonia was precisely what fuelled Vox's meteoric rise from the outer margins of politics to the national scene, after gaining nearly 11 per cent of votes in December regional polls in southern Andalusia. Founded by Santiago Abascal, a disgruntled former PP member, it will now take 24 seats in the national parliament. This is less than what opinion polls had predicted. "I thought Vox would get way more votes, with this result Vox won't have any weight in parliament as no one supports them. We needed more seats," said Maria Bonilla Ortega, a 22-year-old philosophy student in central Madrid, a Spanish flag draped around her shoulders. Abascal was more optimistic: "We can tell Spain with complete calm that Vox has come to stay," he told cheering supporters. After a tense campaign, voter turnout was high at 75.76 per cent, up from 66.48 per cent in 2016, election authorities said. Catalonia shadow With a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox stood out with ultra-nationalist rhetoric advocating the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end" and a hard line against separatists in Catalonia. The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest political crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe. The issue has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics. Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget. Right-wing parties for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for talking with separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of cosying up to those who tried to break up Spain. That controversy is likely to continue as two Catalan separatist parties gained even more lawmakers in the national parliament than they did in 2016 -- up to 22 from 17. In a sign of the impact the crisis had on voters, Dolores Palomo, a 48-year-old domestic worker, said she had always voted for the socialists but cast her ballot for Ciudadanos this time at a polling station in Hospitalet de Llobregat, near Barcelona. The reason? Sanchez "is a puppet of the separatists," she said.

Spain PM Pedro Sanchez wins snap polls marked by far-right gains

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won a national election on Sunday but failed to gain a parliamentary majority. Sanchez will now seek partners to form a new government.

Here are the likely next steps:

What happens now?

Sanchez will approach other parties in an attempt to find common ground to form a government. The talks could last weeks if not months.

The first session of the lower chamber is scheduled for May 21. After that, King Felipe will consult with party leaders to find a prime ministerial candidate who the lower chamber will support.

A new government needs an absolute majority in a first-round parliamentary vote to take office. In a second round vote, only a simple majority is necessary.

If the candidate fails to pass these votes, the clock starts ticking on a two-month deadline for deputies to choose a new prime minister before parliament is automatically dissolved, and another election scheduled to take place 54 days later.

What is the most likely outcome?

Most analysts believe the most likely result is a coalition government of the Socialists and leftist Podemos, although they would not have a majority.

At the last count, the Socialists had won 123 seats in parliament and Podemos 42. That leaves them 11 seats short of a majority in the 350-seat parliament and means they would still rely on smaller parties, most likely Basque nationalists or Catalan separatists, to go ahead.

The picture could still change slightly as the election count is finalised in the first weeks of May.

Other possible outcomes

If talks between the Socialists and Podemos fail, Sanchez could contact centre-right Ciudadanos, which became Spain's third-biggest party after Sunday's vote with 57 seats in parliament. The two parties would have a majority and many in the financial markets see this as the preferred option.

So far neither party has backed this option. Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera has told supporters his party would lead the parliamentary opposition to Sanchez while Socialist backers chanted "with Rivera, no!" at a post-election rally on Sunday.

Alternatively, senior members of Sanchez's government have suggested they could continue to govern with a minority of seats, as they have since taking office last June.

How long will it take?

After discussions with the parties, King Felipe faces no specific deadline to propose a candidate.

There are regional and local elections on May 26 - the same day as European Parliament elections - which will delay talks to form a government. That means a new government is unlikely to be ready until June or July.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won a national election on Sunday but failed to gain a parliamentary majority. Sanchez will now seek partners to form a new government.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists won a national election on Sunday but failed to gain a parliamentary majority. Sanchez will now seek partners to form a new government. Here are the likely next steps: What happens now? Sanchez will approach other parties in an attempt to find common ground to form a government. The talks could last weeks if not months. The first session of the lower chamber is scheduled for May 21. After that, King Felipe will consult with party leaders to find a prime ministerial candidate who the lower chamber will support. A new government needs an absolute majority in a first-round parliamentary vote to take office. In a second round vote, only a simple majority is necessary. If the candidate fails to pass these votes, the clock starts ticking on a two-month deadline for deputies to choose a new prime minister before parliament is automatically dissolved, and another election scheduled to take place 54 days later. What is the most likely outcome? Most analysts believe the most likely result is a coalition government of the Socialists and leftist Podemos, although they would not have a majority. At the last count, the Socialists had won 123 seats in parliament and Podemos 42. That leaves them 11 seats short of a majority in the 350-seat parliament and means they would still rely on smaller parties, most likely Basque nationalists or Catalan separatists, to go ahead. The picture could still change slightly as the election count is finalised in the first weeks of May. Other possible outcomes If talks between the Socialists and Podemos fail, Sanchez could contact centre-right Ciudadanos, which became Spain's third-biggest party after Sunday's vote with 57 seats in parliament. The two parties would have a majority and many in the financial markets see this as the preferred option. So far neither party has backed this option. Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera has told supporters his party would lead the parliamentary opposition to Sanchez while Socialist backers chanted "with Rivera, no!" at a post-election rally on Sunday. Alternatively, senior members of Sanchez's government have suggested they could continue to govern with a minority of seats, as they have since taking office last June. How long will it take? After discussions with the parties, King Felipe faces no specific deadline to propose a candidate. There are regional and local elections on May 26 - the same day as European Parliament elections - which will delay talks to form a government. That means a new government is unlikely to be ready until June or July.

What happens next as Spain's Socialists try to form government

Spaniards flocked to vote on Sunday in a tense snap general election that could see the far-right make a dramatic entrance in parliament after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics.

Opinion polls give outgoing socialist premier Pedro Sanchez a win but without the necessary majority to govern alone, meaning he will have to seek alliances in a political environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid.

The most significant new development of these elections is the emergence of far-right party Vox, which burst onto the scene in December regional polls in southern Andalusia and looks set to make its first-ever entrance into the national parliament.

Polls predict it could take more than 10 per cent of the votes in a country that had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, in what is likely to cause further concern in Europe.

After a tense campaign, voter turnout as of 6 pm (1600 GMT) stood at 60.75 per cent, up from 51.21 per cent at the same time in the preceding polls in 2016, election authorities said. Turnout was notably higher in Catalonia, rising nearly 18 percentage points.

Retired construction worker Carlos Gonzalez said he had cast his ballot for the Socialists because they were a "moderate option".

Vox "is going backwards, to the past. It's not the future because the future is a united Europe," he told AFP at a Madrid polling station.

Sanchez, who took power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, has warned against Spain replicating what happened in Finland's elections two weeks ago.

There, the far-right Finns Party came second, closely tailing the leftist Social Democrats, after polls initially predicted it would end up in fifth position.

In Spain, polls also forecast that Vox, with its ultra-nationalist rhetoric that advocates the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end," will come in fifth place.

But analysts believe it could do better, saying there may be many "hidden" Vox supporters who lie when asked by pollsters who they will be voting for, and it could prop up a right-wing government.

Vox leader Santiago Abascal predicted these elections would be "historical" for Spain as he cast his ballot in Madrid.

'Restore order'

Founded by Abascal, a former member of the conservative Popular Party (PP), with a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox has risen thanks to its hard line against separatists in Catalonia.

The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe.

Since then, the crisis has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics.

Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's early elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget.

Right-wing parties have for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of being a traitor.

Dolores Palomo, a 48-year-old domestic worker, said she has always voted for the Socialists but had cast her ballot for centre-right Ciudadanos this time at a polling station in Hospitalet de Llobregat, near Barcelona, because Sanchez "is a puppet of the separatists".

Chronic instability?

Polling stations will close at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT), with results announced later Sunday.

With no party expected to get anywhere near an absolute majority in what will be the third elections in three-and-a-half years, Spain's political landscape looks set to continue to be fragmented.

If, as opinion polls predict, Sanchez wins without a majority, he will have to forge alliances with far-left Podemos -- as he did over the past 10 months -- but also possibly smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties.

He would rather not have to do that, given right-wing parties' accusations that he cosied up with the "enemies of Spain" during his time in government.

A possible alliance with Ciudadanos has not been ruled out, even if the party's leader Albert Rivera has made "chasing" the socialists from power a "national urgency".

Spaniards flocked to vote on Sunday in a tense snap general election that could see the far-right make a dramatic entrance in parliament after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics.

Spaniards flocked to vote on Sunday in a tense snap general election that could see the far-right make a dramatic entrance in parliament after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics. Opinion polls give outgoing socialist premier Pedro Sanchez a win but without the necessary majority to govern alone, meaning he will have to seek alliances in a political environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid. The most significant new development of these elections is the emergence of far-right party Vox, which burst onto the scene in December regional polls in southern Andalusia and looks set to make its first-ever entrance into the national parliament. Polls predict it could take more than 10 per cent of the votes in a country that had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, in what is likely to cause further concern in Europe. After a tense campaign, voter turnout as of 6 pm (1600 GMT) stood at 60.75 per cent, up from 51.21 per cent at the same time in the preceding polls in 2016, election authorities said. Turnout was notably higher in Catalonia, rising nearly 18 percentage points. Retired construction worker Carlos Gonzalez said he had cast his ballot for the Socialists because they were a "moderate option". Vox "is going backwards, to the past. It's not the future because the future is a united Europe," he told AFP at a Madrid polling station. Sanchez, who took power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, has warned against Spain replicating what happened in Finland's elections two weeks ago. There, the far-right Finns Party came second, closely tailing the leftist Social Democrats, after polls initially predicted it would end up in fifth position. In Spain, polls also forecast that Vox, with its ultra-nationalist rhetoric that advocates the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end," will come in fifth place. But analysts believe it could do better, saying there may be many "hidden" Vox supporters who lie when asked by pollsters who they will be voting for, and it could prop up a right-wing government. Vox leader Santiago Abascal predicted these elections would be "historical" for Spain as he cast his ballot in Madrid. 'Restore order' Founded by Abascal, a former member of the conservative Popular Party (PP), with a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox has risen thanks to its hard line against separatists in Catalonia. The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe. Since then, the crisis has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics. Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's early elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget. Right-wing parties have for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of being a traitor. Dolores Palomo, a 48-year-old domestic worker, said she has always voted for the Socialists but had cast her ballot for centre-right Ciudadanos this time at a polling station in Hospitalet de Llobregat, near Barcelona, because Sanchez "is a puppet of the separatists". Chronic instability? Polling stations will close at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT), with results announced later Sunday. With no party expected to get anywhere near an absolute majority in what will be the third elections in three-and-a-half years, Spain's political landscape looks set to continue to be fragmented. If, as opinion polls predict, Sanchez wins without a majority, he will have to forge alliances with far-left Podemos -- as he did over the past 10 months -- but also possibly smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties. He would rather not have to do that, given right-wing parties' accusations that he cosied up with the "enemies of Spain" during his time in government. A possible alliance with Ciudadanos has not been ruled out, even if the party's leader Albert Rivera has made "chasing" the socialists from power a "national urgency".

Big turnout for Spain's early election marked by far-right emergence

Final preparations ahead of Spain's April 28 election were underway on Saturday (April 27) after campaigning ended on Friday (April 26) evening with parties hitting out hard at opponents in final campaign rallies.

Ballots being readied for knife-edge Spanish election

Spain voted Sunday in an uncertain snap general election marked by a resurgence of the far-right after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics.

Opinion polls give outgoing socialist premier Pedro Sanchez a win but without the necessary majority to govern alone, meaning he will have to seek alliances in a political environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid.

By far the novelty of these elections is the emergence of far-right party Vox, which burst onto the scene in December regional polls in southern Andalusia and looks set to make its first-ever entrance into the national parliament.

Polls predict it could take more than 10 percent of the votes in a country that had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, in what is likely to cause further concern in Europe.

Polling stations will close at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT), with results announced later Sunday.

Retired construction worker Carlos Gonzalez told AFP at a polling station in Madrid that he had cast his ballot for the Socialists because they were a "moderate option".

Vox "is going backwards, to the past. It's not the future because the future is a united Europe," he added.

Sanchez, who took power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, has warned against Spain replicating what happened in Finland's elections two weeks ago.

There, the far-right Finns Party came second, closely tailing the leftist Social Democrats, after polls initially predicted it would end up in fifth position.

In Spain, polls also forecast that Vox, with its ultra-nationalist rhetoric that advocates the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end," will come in fifth place.

But analysts believe it could do better, saying there may be many "hidden" Vox supporters who lie when asked by pollsters who they will be voting for.

"There is a real, true risk," Sanchez said this week, warning that a right-wing government supported by Vox could emerge in Spain after the elections, even if opinion polls say this is unlikely.

'Restore order'

Founded by a former member of the conservative Popular Party (PP), with a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox has risen thanks to its hard line against separatists in Catalonia.

The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe.

Since then, the crisis has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics.

Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's early elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget.

Right-wing parties have for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of being a traitor.

"I hope the right wins and restores a bit of order here," said Teresa Diaz, a 63-year-old pensioner, after casting her ballot in Hospitalet de Llobregat, near Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia.

Chronic instability?

With no party expected to get anywhere near an absolute majority in what will be the third elections in three-and-a-half years, Spain's fragmented political landscape looks set to continue.

If, as opinion polls predict, Sanchez wins without a majority, he will have to forge alliances with far-left Podemos -- as he did over the past 10 months -- but also possibly smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties.

He would rather not have to do that, given right-wing parties' accusations that he cosied up with the "enemies of Spain" during his time in government.

A possible alliance with Ciudadanos has not been ruled out, even if the centre-right party's leader Albert Rivera has made "chasing" the socialists from power a "national urgency." 
&nbsp;

Spain voted Sunday in an uncertain snap general election marked by a resurgence of the far-right after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics. Opinion polls give outgoing socialist premier Pedro Sanchez a win but without the necessary majority to govern alone, meaning he will have to seek alliances in a political environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid.

Spain voted Sunday in an uncertain snap general election marked by a resurgence of the far-right after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics. Opinion polls give outgoing socialist premier Pedro Sanchez a win but without the necessary majority to govern alone, meaning he will have to seek alliances in a political environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid. By far the novelty of these elections is the emergence of far-right party Vox, which burst onto the scene in December regional polls in southern Andalusia and looks set to make its first-ever entrance into the national parliament. Polls predict it could take more than 10 percent of the votes in a country that had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, in what is likely to cause further concern in Europe. Polling stations will close at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT), with results announced later Sunday. Retired construction worker Carlos Gonzalez told AFP at a polling station in Madrid that he had cast his ballot for the Socialists because they were a "moderate option". Vox "is going backwards, to the past. It's not the future because the future is a united Europe," he added. Sanchez, who took power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, has warned against Spain replicating what happened in Finland's elections two weeks ago. There, the far-right Finns Party came second, closely tailing the leftist Social Democrats, after polls initially predicted it would end up in fifth position. In Spain, polls also forecast that Vox, with its ultra-nationalist rhetoric that advocates the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end," will come in fifth place. But analysts believe it could do better, saying there may be many "hidden" Vox supporters who lie when asked by pollsters who they will be voting for. "There is a real, true risk," Sanchez said this week, warning that a right-wing government supported by Vox could emerge in Spain after the elections, even if opinion polls say this is unlikely. 'Restore order' Founded by a former member of the conservative Popular Party (PP), with a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox has risen thanks to its hard line against separatists in Catalonia. The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe. Since then, the crisis has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics. Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's early elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget. Right-wing parties have for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of being a traitor. "I hope the right wins and restores a bit of order here," said Teresa Diaz, a 63-year-old pensioner, after casting her ballot in Hospitalet de Llobregat, near Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia. Chronic instability? With no party expected to get anywhere near an absolute majority in what will be the third elections in three-and-a-half years, Spain's fragmented political landscape looks set to continue. If, as opinion polls predict, Sanchez wins without a majority, he will have to forge alliances with far-left Podemos -- as he did over the past 10 months -- but also possibly smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties. He would rather not have to do that, given right-wing parties' accusations that he cosied up with the "enemies of Spain" during his time in government. A possible alliance with Ciudadanos has not been ruled out, even if the centre-right party's leader Albert Rivera has made "chasing" the socialists from power a "national urgency."

Spain votes in early election marked by far-right resurgence

From the youthful conservative hardliner to the pony-tailed far-left former professor, the cast of candidates challenging Spain's socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez represents the country's changing political landscape. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Here are the f<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/voting-begins-in-spain-election-marked-by-far-right-resurgence-214062">ive main candidates locking horns in Sunday's election</a>.

Pedro Sanchez

Opinion polls have tipped the 47-year-old socialist prime minister as the winner but without the majority, he will need to govern.

After having led the Socialist Party (PSOE) to one of its worst ever scores in the 2016 election, Sanchez took power in June from then conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy, toppled by a no-confidence motion.

Sanchez's minority government was supported by a motley crew -- far-left Podemos, Basque nationalists and separatist lawmakers from Catalonia, the northeastern region rocked by a failed secession bid in 2017.

But the trained economist was forced to call early elections after Catalan lawmakers refused to back his 2019 budget.

Leading an executive with the highest number of female ministers in Spanish history, Sanchez scored big in Europe soon after taking office by accepting to take in 630 migrants rescued by the Aquarius charity ship.

After years of devastating austerity, he also increased the minimum salary by 22 per cent.

Pablo Casado

In July, the 38-year-old became the conservative Popular Party's (PP) youngest ever leader.

In charge of the party's communications under Rajoy, the law graduate has steered the PP further to the right.

After December regional elections in southern Andalusia, his candidate leapt to power with the support of centre-right Ciudadanos and far-right party Vox, chasing the socialists from their traditional stronghold.

If a similar alliance took shape after Sunday's election, Casado -- who has waged an aggressive campaign against Sanchez, accusing him of betraying Spain for talking with Catalan separatists -- could become the youngest Spanish prime minister in history.

But opinion polls estimate the PP won't do well, caught as it is between Ciudadanos and Vox.

Pablo Iglesias

The pony-tailed former politics professor is looking for a new lease of life for his far-left Podemos party which contributed to the end of two-party politics in 2015 along with Ciudadanos.

Born from the Indignados anti-austerity movement that shook Spain during the economic crisis, Podemos would like to forge a coalition with the socialists.

But the party has been weakened by internal divisions, and opinion polls estimate it will only get half the parliamentary seats it won in 2016.

Iglesias himself has also been hit by a controversy over a luxury villa the 40-year-old bought last year with his partner Irene Montero, deputy leader of Podemos.

Albert Rivera

The centre-right Ciudadanos leader from Barcelona with a liberal economic and social programme fiercely defends the unity of Spain in the face of separatists in his native Catalonia.

The 39-year-old's Ciudadanos entered the national parliament with a bang in 2015, pledging to wipe out the traditional left-right divide.

Rivera, who has since veered more to the right, now refuses any potential alliance with Sanchez if the latter wins after having tried -- and failed -- to enter a coalition with him in 2016.

He has instead reached out to the PP.

Santiago Abascal

A former PP member who grew up in the northern Basque Country under the constant threat of separatist group ETA, Abascal has created a stir with his far-right party Vox.

Opinion polls say his ultra-nationalist party could get more than 10 per cent of votes in a country with no far-right to speak of until now.

Largely unknown until several months ago, Abascal has benefited from his hardline stance against Catalan separatism.

Making regular headlines with controversial proposals, the 43-year-old criticises traditional media and has used social networks hugely for his campaign.

From the youthful conservative hardliner to the pony-tailed far-left former professor, the cast of candidates challenging Spain's socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez represents the country's changing political landscape.

From the youthful conservative hardliner to the pony-tailed far-left former professor, the cast of candidates challenging Spain's socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez represents the country's changing political landscape. Here are the five main candidates locking horns in Sunday's election. Pedro Sanchez Opinion polls have tipped the 47-year-old socialist prime minister as the winner but without the majority, he will need to govern. After having led the Socialist Party (PSOE) to one of its worst ever scores in the 2016 election, Sanchez took power in June from then conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy, toppled by a no-confidence motion. Sanchez's minority government was supported by a motley crew -- far-left Podemos, Basque nationalists and separatist lawmakers from Catalonia, the northeastern region rocked by a failed secession bid in 2017. But the trained economist was forced to call early elections after Catalan lawmakers refused to back his 2019 budget. Leading an executive with the highest number of female ministers in Spanish history, Sanchez scored big in Europe soon after taking office by accepting to take in 630 migrants rescued by the Aquarius charity ship. After years of devastating austerity, he also increased the minimum salary by 22 per cent. Pablo Casado In July, the 38-year-old became the conservative Popular Party's (PP) youngest ever leader. In charge of the party's communications under Rajoy, the law graduate has steered the PP further to the right. After December regional elections in southern Andalusia, his candidate leapt to power with the support of centre-right Ciudadanos and far-right party Vox, chasing the socialists from their traditional stronghold. If a similar alliance took shape after Sunday's election, Casado -- who has waged an aggressive campaign against Sanchez, accusing him of betraying Spain for talking with Catalan separatists -- could become the youngest Spanish prime minister in history. But opinion polls estimate the PP won't do well, caught as it is between Ciudadanos and Vox. Pablo Iglesias The pony-tailed former politics professor is looking for a new lease of life for his far-left Podemos party which contributed to the end of two-party politics in 2015 along with Ciudadanos. Born from the Indignados anti-austerity movement that shook Spain during the economic crisis, Podemos would like to forge a coalition with the socialists. But the party has been weakened by internal divisions, and opinion polls estimate it will only get half the parliamentary seats it won in 2016. Iglesias himself has also been hit by a controversy over a luxury villa the 40-year-old bought last year with his partner Irene Montero, deputy leader of Podemos. Albert Rivera The centre-right Ciudadanos leader from Barcelona with a liberal economic and social programme fiercely defends the unity of Spain in the face of separatists in his native Catalonia. The 39-year-old's Ciudadanos entered the national parliament with a bang in 2015, pledging to wipe out the traditional left-right divide. Rivera, who has since veered more to the right, now refuses any potential alliance with Sanchez if the latter wins after having tried -- and failed -- to enter a coalition with him in 2016. He has instead reached out to the PP. Santiago Abascal A former PP member who grew up in the northern Basque Country under the constant threat of separatist group ETA, Abascal has created a stir with his far-right party Vox. Opinion polls say his ultra-nationalist party could get more than 10 per cent of votes in a country with no far-right to speak of until now. Largely unknown until several months ago, Abascal has benefited from his hardline stance against Catalan separatism. Making regular headlines with controversial proposals, the 43-year-old criticises traditional media and has used social networks hugely for his campaign.

Spain's five main election candidates

Spaniards began voting in an uncertain snap general election Sunday marked by a resurgence of the far-right after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics.

Opinion polls give outgoing socialist premier Pedro Sanchez a win but without the necessary majority to govern alone, meaning he will have to seek alliances in a political environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid.

By far the novelty of these elections is the emergence of far-right party Vox, which burst onto the scene in December regional polls in southern Andalusia and looks set to make its first-ever entrance into the national parliament.

Polls predict it could take more than 10 per cent of the votes in a country that had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, in what is likely to cause further concern in Europe.

Polling stations opened at 9:00 am (0700 GMT) and will close at 8:00 pm local time (1800 GMT), with results announced later Sunday.

Far-right surge

Sanchez, who took power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, has warned against Spain replicating what happened in Finland's elections two weeks ago.

There, the far-right Finns Party came second, closely tailing the leftist Social Democrats, after polls initially predicted it would end up in fifth position.

In Spain, polls also forecast that Vox, with its ultra-nationalist rhetoric that advocates the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end," will come in fifth place.

But analysts believe it could do better, saying there may be many "hidden" Vox supporters who lie when asked by pollsters who they will be voting for.

"There is a real, true risk," Sanchez said this week, warning that a right-wing government supported by Vox could emerge in Spain after the elections, even if opinion polls say this is unlikely.

Catalonia shadow&nbsp;

Founded by a former member of the conservative Popular Party (PP), with a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox has risen thanks to its hard line against separatists in Catalonia.

The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe.

Since then, the crisis has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics.

Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's early elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget.

Right-wing parties have for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of being a traitor.

Chronic instability?&nbsp;

With no party expected to get anywhere near an absolute majority in what will be the third elections in three-and-a-half years, Spain's fragmented political landscape looks set to continue.

If, as opinion polls predict, Sanchez wins without a majority, he will have to forge alliances with far-left Podemos -- as he did over the past 10 months -- but also possibly smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties.

He would rather not have to do that, given right-wing parties' accusations that he cosied up with the "enemies of Spain" during his time in government.

A possible alliance with Ciudadanos has not been ruled out, even if the centre-right party's leader Albert Rivera has made "chasing" the socialists from power a "national urgency."

"Fragmented Spain votes with great uncertainty," headlined top-selling daily El Pais on its front page on Sunday, while rival daily El Mundo headlined: "Spain votes today on tenterhooks due to the uncertainty".

Spaniards began voting in an uncertain snap general election Sunday marked by a resurgence of the far-right after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics.

Spaniards began voting in an uncertain snap general election Sunday marked by a resurgence of the far-right after more than four decades on the outer margins of politics. Opinion polls give outgoing socialist premier Pedro Sanchez a win but without the necessary majority to govern alone, meaning he will have to seek alliances in a political environment that has soured since Catalonia's failed secession bid. By far the novelty of these elections is the emergence of far-right party Vox, which burst onto the scene in December regional polls in southern Andalusia and looks set to make its first-ever entrance into the national parliament. Polls predict it could take more than 10 per cent of the votes in a country that had no far-right party to speak of since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, in what is likely to cause further concern in Europe. Polling stations opened at 9:00 am (0700 GMT) and will close at 8:00 pm local time (1800 GMT), with results announced later Sunday. Far-right surge Sanchez, who took power in June after ousting conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote, has warned against Spain replicating what happened in Finland's elections two weeks ago. There, the far-right Finns Party came second, closely tailing the leftist Social Democrats, after polls initially predicted it would end up in fifth position. In Spain, polls also forecast that Vox, with its ultra-nationalist rhetoric that advocates the "defence of the Spanish nation to the end," will come in fifth place. But analysts believe it could do better, saying there may be many "hidden" Vox supporters who lie when asked by pollsters who they will be voting for. "There is a real, true risk," Sanchez said this week, warning that a right-wing government supported by Vox could emerge in Spain after the elections, even if opinion polls say this is unlikely. Catalonia shadow Founded by a former member of the conservative Popular Party (PP), with a strong stance against feminism and illegal immigration, Vox has risen thanks to its hard line against separatists in Catalonia. The region in northeastern Spain was the scene of a secession attempt in 2017 that sparked the country's biggest crisis in decades and caused major concern in Europe. Since then, the crisis has continued to cast a pall over Spanish politics. Sanchez was forced to call Sunday's early elections after Catalan pro-independence lawmakers in the national parliament, angered at the trial of their leaders in Madrid, refused to give him the support he needed for his 2019 budget. Right-wing parties have for their part lambasted Sanchez, at the head of a minority government, for his attempts to negotiate with Catalan separatists who still govern the region, accusing him of being a traitor. Chronic instability? With no party expected to get anywhere near an absolute majority in what will be the third elections in three-and-a-half years, Spain's fragmented political landscape looks set to continue. If, as opinion polls predict, Sanchez wins without a majority, he will have to forge alliances with far-left Podemos -- as he did over the past 10 months -- but also possibly smaller groupings like Catalan separatist parties. He would rather not have to do that, given right-wing parties' accusations that he cosied up with the "enemies of Spain" during his time in government. A possible alliance with Ciudadanos has not been ruled out, even if the centre-right party's leader Albert Rivera has made "chasing" the socialists from power a "national urgency." "Fragmented Spain votes with great uncertainty," headlined top-selling daily El Pais on its front page on Sunday, while rival daily El Mundo headlined: "Spain votes today on tenterhooks due to the uncertainty".

Voting begins in Spain election marked by far-right resurgence

Spanish elections: 5 main issues at stake in Sunday's polls

Four Catalan leaders on trial over a 2017 bid to split their region from Spain have said separatists should be more flexible about entering negotiations on forming the next Madrid government after April 28 national election.

Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is forecast to win the most seats in the vote, but could need Catalan separatists' backing to form a government. A unionist, rightist coalition winning a majority is another possible scenario.

The Catalan leaders' call, made in a letter in Saturday's edition of La Vanguardia newspaper, said separatists should enter talks with potential coaltion partners as long as they refused to rule out an independence referendum as a "possible solution" for the region.

That marked a softening of their previous stance and raises the possibility of compromise on an issue that has vexed past coalition talks.

"If it depends on us, we won't look the other way when it is time to form a stable government, provided the candidate commits to dialogue and doesn't rule out an independence referendum as one possible solution," the leaders' letter said.

They had said previously that holding an independence referendum for the region would be a non-negotiable condition for entering discussions to form a national government. Madrid has categorically ruled out holding such a referendum.

While rejecting an independence ballot, Sanchez has taken a more conciliatory tone toward the restive region since coming to power last year.

He called a snap election in February after failing to win the support he needed from Catalan separatists to pass his budget.

The four authors of Saturday's letter -- all members of former leader Carles Puigdemont's party -- are among 12 Catalan politicians and activists being tried on charges including rebellion and misappropriation of funds for their role in organising a 2017 referendum and subsequent failed declaration of independence.

They also sought to rally support for their party by saying a strong showing would lessen the chances of a right-wing coalition, including the far-right party Vox, being able to form a government.

Despite narrowly winning a majority in 2017 snap elections called in the wake of the secession crisis, Catalan separatist parties have struggled to further the independence movement in the face of successive Madrid governments unwilling to negotiate any split from Spain.

Four Catalan leaders on trial over a 2017 bid to split their region from Spain have said separatists should be more flexible about entering negotiations on forming the next Madrid government after April 28 national election.

Four Catalan leaders on trial over a 2017 bid to split their region from Spain have said separatists should be more flexible about entering negotiations on forming the next Madrid government after April 28 national election. Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is forecast to win the most seats in the vote, but could need Catalan separatists' backing to form a government. A unionist, rightist coalition winning a majority is another possible scenario. The Catalan leaders' call, made in a letter in Saturday's edition of La Vanguardia newspaper, said separatists should enter talks with potential coaltion partners as long as they refused to rule out an independence referendum as a "possible solution" for the region. That marked a softening of their previous stance and raises the possibility of compromise on an issue that has vexed past coalition talks. "If it depends on us, we won't look the other way when it is time to form a stable government, provided the candidate commits to dialogue and doesn't rule out an independence referendum as one possible solution," the leaders' letter said. They had said previously that holding an independence referendum for the region would be a non-negotiable condition for entering discussions to form a national government. Madrid has categorically ruled out holding such a referendum. While rejecting an independence ballot, Sanchez has taken a more conciliatory tone toward the restive region since coming to power last year. He called a snap election in February after failing to win the support he needed from Catalan separatists to pass his budget. The four authors of Saturday's letter -- all members of former leader Carles Puigdemont's party -- are among 12 Catalan politicians and activists being tried on charges including rebellion and misappropriation of funds for their role in organising a 2017 referendum and subsequent failed declaration of independence. They also sought to rally support for their party by saying a strong showing would lessen the chances of a right-wing coalition, including the far-right party Vox, being able to form a government. Despite narrowly winning a majority in 2017 snap elections called in the wake of the secession crisis, Catalan separatist parties have struggled to further the independence movement in the face of successive Madrid governments unwilling to negotiate any split from Spain.

Jailed Catalan leaders ease position on post-election coalition talks

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